In a televised debate on Thursday night, Massachusetts Democratic Senate candidates Sen. Ed Markey and Rep. Seth Moulton addressed voters on several contentious issues that reflect the leftward shift within their party.
Transgender athletes in women’s sports
Both candidates said biological males should be permitted to compete in women’s sports, citing Massachusetts law. Markey affirmed, “Yes, I do,” while Moulton apologized for a 2022 comment about his daughters potentially being “run over on a playing field by a male or formerly male athlete.” Markey accused Moulton of using the issue as political fodder, and Moulton responded that Democrats must lead the debate to prevent Republicans from advancing what he called hateful legislation.
Immigration enforcement
When asked about immigration, both men called for abolishing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Moulton described ICE as “completely corrupt” and “staffed by thugs,” and urged prosecutions of its officials. Markey said he opposed ICE’s creation from the start, citing “seeds of authoritarianism.”
Trump and election integrity
Markey called for former President Donald Trump’s impeachment and criticized the SAVE America Act, alleging it was designed to “steal” the election. The GOP‑backed voter‑integrity bill would require proof of citizenship to register and photo ID to vote in federal elections.
Party direction and socialism
Both candidates said the Democratic Party should move further left. Markey urged the party to be “more progressive,” focusing on young voters, while Moulton warned that the party establishment, especially Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, has failed to hold Trump and MAGA Republicans accountable.
Term limits
Markey, first elected to the House in 1976, defended his ability to serve another term, emphasizing his energy and experience. Moulton, a Marine veteran, advocated for congressional term limits and an upper age limit, arguing that younger leaders should have the opportunity to serve.
The winner of the September 1 Democratic primary will face Republican attorney and Marine veteran John Deaton in the November general election.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
