06/19/2026
Massachusetts Democratic Convention Continued – Saturday, May 30, 2026
The convention's only contested statewide endorsement race was for U.S. Senate, with Congressman Seth Moulton challenging incumbent Senator Ed Markey for the Massachusetts Democratic Party endorsement.
Congressman Seth Moulton addressed delegates first, arguing that the Democratic Party needs "new leadership and a new playbook." He opened his remarks by stating, "There is a monster in the White House," and said that former President Trump "should be in jail." Moulton called for Democrats to lead with courage and said, "We can't wait six more years to change that seat." He pledged to help Democrats flip seats across the country and spoke about the need for affordable housing, healthcare, and human rights protections. Moulton also argued that what he referred to as the "Epstein class" should "pay their fair share."
U.S. Senator Ed Markey followed, thanking delegates for their service and reminding them that they were gathered "for the common good of our democracy." Markey said that the future of both the nation and the Commonwealth depends on growing the working class and that the Democratic Party is "fueled by compassion." He spoke about rising costs facing working families, saying, "Prices are up, gas is up, food is up, healthcare is up."
Markey argued that "millionaires and billionaires should pay taxes like working people pay" and that they should "pay their fair share." He called for banning stock trading by the President, members of Congress, and Supreme Court justices, telling delegates, "Politicians answer to you!" He also advocated for Medicare for All, gun-free schools, clean air, clean water, lower electric bills, clean energy, and renewable power.
Markey expressed support for LGBTQ+ rights and his proposed Trans Bill of Rights. On immigration issues, he noted that when ICE was created in 2002, "I voted no," and called for major changes to the agency. He urged delegates to continue grassroots organizing, reminding them that "grassroots activism works" and closing with his rallying cry: "Don't agonize, organize!"
Following the speeches, delegates cast their votes. Of the 4,013 delegates and guests credentialed for the convention, 3,762 votes were cast in the endorsement contest. Senator Ed Markey received 2,744 votes, while Congressman Seth Moulton received 1,018 votes.
Markey earned the Massachusetts Democratic Party endorsement. Moulton, however, surpassed the threshold needed to remain on the ballot and will face Markey in the September Democratic Primary.
With the convention concluded, Democrats now turn their attention to the fall campaign season and the work of engaging voters across the Commonwealth.