Overview
- Markey’s standing strengthened after mid‑August polling, with a UMass Amherst/WCVB survey showing him at 60% to Moulton’s 32% and a Suffolk University/Globe poll putting Markey at 52% to 38%.
- Pollsters say Markey leads on perceived ideology, trust and approval, with about 82% approval among likely primary voters in the UMass survey and major advantages with women, young voters and college‑educated Democrats.
- Moulton’s campaign message of generational change has not closed the gap and is hurt by voter concerns over his past comments on transgender issues, which the UMass poll found would make 67% of voters less likely to back a candidate who opposed transgender rights.
- The Boston Globe’s editorial board endorsed Moulton in mid‑August, but that high‑profile backing has not erased Markey’s polling edge and the campaigns are preparing for a final debate on Aug. 20 and early voting that begins Aug. 22.
- If the polls hold, Markey would be heavily favored in the Sept. 1 Democratic primary, though analysts note polls are snapshots and say debates, late endorsements and early ballots could still affect turnout and results.