While this newspaper maintains a longstanding practice of refraining from endorsing candidates for elected office, we believe it is important to acknowledge the Senate candidacy of Edward J. Markey, our distinguished longtime Congressman, who is seeking the U.S. Senate seat vacated by John F. Kerry, now serving as Secretary of State in the Obama administration.
As the dean of the Massachusetts Congressional delegation, Ed Markey stands apart in his mastery of legislative mechanics and Capitol Hill operations. His 36 years of service have included chairmanships of various committees and subcommittees, along with extensive collaboration with the Senate. Few legislators possess his ability to work across party lines and achieve legislative victories, as demonstrated by the numerous projects brought to completion for our district through his skillful navigation of Washington’s complex legislative system.
Beyond the mechanics of lawmaking, Ed Markey has consistently championed consumers and middle-class Americans against corporate interests. Throughout his career, he has sponsored legislation benefiting Americans across all demographics—a record of consumer advocacy arguably unmatched in today’s Congress. His consistent advocacy has favored working people above all else.
We also note that during Ed Markey’s first congressional campaign in the summer of 1976, his powerful campaign message captured his political character: “They can tell me where to sit, but they can’t tell me where to stand.” This reflected his refusal to follow party directives during his time in the Mass. House, leading the late Speaker Tom McGee to remove Markey’s office and relocate his desk to a basement corridor at the State House. Throughout his political career, Ed Markey has remained guided by conscience rather than pressure, maintaining an exemplary ethical record.
These qualities explain why local leaders including Speaker of the House Bob DeLeo and Revere Mayor Dan Rizzo have readily endorsed Ed’s Senate bid.
We encourage local voters to carefully follow this Senate race and consider which candidate has consistently delivered on promises and championed their interests over many decades.