Moulton Challenges Markey for Senate Seat

On Wednesday, Congressman Seth Moulton (D-Mass.) declared his intention to challenge Senator Ed Markey (D-Mass.) in the upcoming election, citing concerns about Markey’s age. The 79-year-old senator has been in Congress since 1976, and Moulton questioned whether it’s time for a change in leadership.

“Is he too old?” Moulton remarked in a recent interview. “I know political consultants typically advise against saying this, but honestly, I do think so.”

He acknowledged that Markey is a “very nice man” but went on to note that after serving 50 years in Congress, Markey will be 86 at the end of his next term as a junior senator. Moulton, a 46-year-old Iraq War veteran and congressman serving his sixth term, pointed out that while he often aligns with Markey on various issues, he believes the Democratic Party—and the country as a whole—requires a younger leadership.

In his campaign launch video, Moulton referenced lessons learned from the last presidential election, specifically noting concerns about age and mental acuity after Kamala Harris took over as the Democratic nominee following Joe Biden. “Given all we’ve learned, there’s no reason for Sen. Markey to seek another six-year term at age 80,” Moulton stated. “I don’t believe someone who’s been in Congress for half a century is the right leader for our current challenges.”

Previously, Moulton had encouraged Biden to step aside from the presidential race last July and shared that during a recent D-Day event in Normandy, the then-president “didn’t seem to recognize” him.

He has also criticized the Democratic leadership, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.). “Real people in Massachusetts are suffering because Democratic leaders aren’t doing enough to win,” he said. “It’s time for an honest look in the mirror. We need change.”

Moulton expressed that, if elected, he would oppose making Senator Schumer the majority leader, believing the party needs “new energy.” He outlined his commitment to pursue “big, positive, progressive solutions” in the Senate, particularly focusing on universal health care, high-speed rail initiatives, affordable housing, banning assault weapons, and combating climate change.

At the time of this announcement, Markey’s campaign had not yet responded to requests for comment from the press.