Young people understand the need for widespread political change in this nation, but this change must be meaningful. As LHS students, we are deeply concerned about politicians who ignore issues like climate change and the housing and jobs crisis that will face us once we graduate.
That’s why we agree with Sen. Ed Markey, who recognizes that the most important factor is not just a candidate’s age, but the age of their ideas. Markey hasn’t let his time in Washington weaken his commitment to progressive ideals; he consistently pushes forward national discussions on issues that affect future generations and has demonstrated a willingness to challenge establishment assumptions.
Ed Markey has been a reliable advocate for the environment throughout his tenure in the Senate. Markey was one of the two crucial architects of the Green New Deal, a comprehensive plan to combat climate change – one of our generation’s most pressing issues – through trillions of dollars in green investment and job creation.
Although the original text of the Green New Deal wasn’t passed, Ed Markey proved his political acumen by instituting many provisions of the Green New Deal in the groundbreaking 2022 Inflation Reduction Act. This bill was the single largest green investment bill in American history, dedicating over $369 billion to renewable energy projects to fight climate change. This is the kind of principled commitment and lawmaking experience that Markey brings to the table.
Additionally, young people are increasingly locked out of the housing market; facing insurmountable odds in striving to achieve financial independence. Cosponsoring Elizabeth Warren’s 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, a vote which Seth Moulton was absent from, Ed Markey has demonstrated distinction in advocating for affordability and an economy that works for everyone.
Thanks to his extensive record of legislation, he also has the advantage of holding important roles in Congress, including his role as the highest-ranking Democrat on the US Senate Committee on Small Businesses & Entrepreneurship. In this position, Ed Markey gives Massachusetts a seat at the table by promoting policies that encourage entrepreneurship, and help local businesses thrive in our community.
Markey prioritizes financial integrity in politics. He rejects corporate PAC money, supports a congressional stock trading ban, and holds no vested interests from personal investments. By contrast, his challenger, Seth Moulton, has millions in stock holdings and takes donations from corporate PACs.
Senator Ed Markey embodies the progress we believe our generation deserves. He has fought for the common good, rather than catering to special interest groups. That is why we are proud to support Ed Markey for re-election to the US Senate on September 1st.
Kevin Chen and Andrew Wu
