Sen. Ed Markey (D-Mass.) has won reelection to a third term in the U.S. Senate, according to Decision Desk HQ projections. The 80-year-old Democrat defeated Republican challenger John Deaton, an attorney and Marine Corps veteran, in a race that was never considered competitive in the deep-blue state.
Markey's victory extends his congressional career to 50 years, a tenure that began in the House in 1976. In the Senate, he has focused on climate legislation, healthcare access, education funding, and economic inequality, often aligning with the progressive wing of his party.
The general election outcome was widely anticipated, as Massachusetts has not elected a Republican to the Senate since 2010, and pre-election polls showed Markey with a commanding lead over Deaton. The real drama came earlier this year in the Democratic primary, where Rep. Seth Moulton challenged Markey, making the incumbent's age a central issue in a failed bid to force him out.
Markey's primary victory was fueled by young progressives, a demographic he explicitly credited in his victory speech. "Tonight is a testament to the power of the progressive movement of our nation," Markey said. "It is a progressive movement fueled by young people demanding more from their leaders, and it's your voices that are the ones we need to hear right now."
Following that primary win, Markey indicated that this would be his last campaign for public office, a statement that adds a sense of finality to his long political career. His Senate seat will be a key part of the Democratic caucus as the party navigates a narrowly divided chamber.
While Markey's victory was expected, it comes amid a broader electoral landscape that saw other races draw national attention. For instance, in Wisconsin's governor race, Democrat Tony Crowley made history, and in Florida, Republican Byron Donalds also made history. These results, along with Markey's win, are part of a mixed night for both parties.
Massachusetts voters also weighed in on a ballot measure that would have scrapped party primaries in favor of a top-two system. According to Decision Desk HQ, voters rejected that proposal, preserving the traditional party primary structure that Markey navigated successfully.
Markey's win ensures that Massachusetts will continue to be represented by a senior Democrat with significant influence on energy and environmental policy. His return to the Senate is likely to be welcomed by climate advocates who view him as a leading voice on the issue.
