Competitive House races and a Senate showdown will put the US Democrats’ progressive-moderate divide to the test.
By Al Jazeera Staff and The Associated Press
Voters in the US state of Massachusetts head to the polls on Tuesday for a primary election featuring a closely watched United States Senate contest between Democratic incumbent Senator Ed Markey and US Representative Seth Moulton.
The race is the latest contest that pits the Democratic Party’s progressive and moderate wings against each other. But in a twist, Moulton, the challenger, is part of the moderate New Democrat Coalition, while Markey, the longtime progressive incumbent, is fighting to hold on to his seat.
Voters will also decide competitive Democratic primaries in the 6th and 8th Congressional Districts, as well as races for the state’s governor, state legislature, and district attorney.
What time do polls open and close in Massachusetts?
The Massachusetts primary is Tuesday, September 1, 2026. Polls open at 7am ET (11:00 GMT) and close at 8pm ET (midnight GMT).
What are the key races in the Massachusetts primary?
In the 6th District, voters will choose a Democratic nominee to succeed Moulton. The top contenders include former local election official Dan Koh, financial technology executive John Beccia, and Massachusetts State Representative Tram Nguyen.
