Ed Markey Defeats Seth Moulton

The Massachusetts senator beat a generational primary challenge from Rep. Seth Moulton.

•Left & Center

Progressive push for change doesn't apply to geriatric politicians

Massachusetts Sen. Ed Markey will defeat challenger Rep. Seth Moulton in Democratic primary, AP projects

Massachusetts Democrats Embrace the Gerontocracy

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A neutral summary of the key facts most outlets agree on, drawn from reporting across the political spectrum.

Sen. Ed Markey won Massachusetts’ Democratic primary for U.S. Senate, defeating Rep. Seth Moulton as he seeks a third full term. The race was called at 8:31 p.m.; at that point, Markey led 74.1% to 25.9% with 3% of the vote counted. Moulton, 47, had centered his challenge on generational change against Markey, 80, who has served in Congress since 1976. Markey will face Republican John Deaton in the general election.

Analysis & opinion

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Incumbent Age HypocrisyLeft & Center

Massachusetts Democrats and progressives are undermining their calls for generational change by sticking with aging incumbents such as Ed Markey. Voters want younger Democratic leadership, and defending elderly officeholders exposes an inconsistency in the party’s rhetoric.