Massachusetts Democrats Ed Markey and Seth Moulton squared off Thursday night in their final Senate primary debate, laying out starkly different visions for the party’s future.
Transgender Athletes in Women’s Sports
Both candidates said biological males should be allowed to compete in women’s sports, with Markey affirming, “Yes, I do,” and saying the policy is the law in Massachusetts.
Moulton apologized for past remarks that suggested his daughters could be “run over” by a male athlete, stating he did not intend to hurt anyone and that Republicans were the real enemy.
Abolishing ICE
Moulton called ICE “completely corrupt” and “staffed by thugs,” urging prosecution of its members and saying the party failed to hold the Trump administration accountable.
Markey said he opposed ICE’s creation from the start, citing “seeds of authoritarianism” in its founding.
Trump as a Threat to Democracy
Markey demanded Trump’s impeachment and accused him of using the SAVE America Act to “steal” the election, while Moulton blamed Democratic leadership, especially Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, for not effectively confronting Trump and MAGA Republicans.
Moulton blamed the Democratic Party and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer for failing to push back on MAGA Republicans.
Socialist Momentum in the Democratic Party
Both candidates urged the party to embrace the growing progressive wing, citing Medicare for All, a Green New Deal, and the rise of the Democratic Socialists of America.
Moulton highlighted New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani as an example of a progressive leader focused on affordability, while Markey said the party must be “more progressive” to capture young voters.
Term Limits and Age Concerns
Markey, 80, asserted he remains energized and capable of serving another term, dismissing concerns about his age.
Moulton said he supports term limits, arguing that Congress should set upper age limits for service.
The September 1 primary winner will face Republican attorney and Marine veteran John Deaton in the November general election.
