Markey Picking Up Endorsements In Senate Bid

Congressman Ed Markey collected numerous endorsements over the past week in his potential run for U.S. Senate while his only Democratic competition – South Boston Congressman Stephen Lynch – is set to reveal his plans later this week.

In a show of support, elected officials from across Markey’s current district pledged support to his effort, including Speaker Bob DeLeo (D-Winthrop) and Mayor Dan Rizzo.

“I’ve known and worked with Ed for 25 years and am proud to give him my endorsement as our next senator,” said DeLeo. “His leadership has been vital in helping coastal communities like those I represent, and I am sure he will show the same determination in fighting for Massachusetts and America as he has for my district.”

Rizzo lent his endorsement to Markey in the race, as did State Rep. Kathi-Anne Reinstein (D-Revere) and State Sen. Anthony Petruccelli (D-Eastie).

“I am definitely supporting Ed and am looking forward to working with him when the campaign starts,” said Petruccelli.

All in all, some 27 state representatives and state senators pledged their support to Markey. An additional five mayors also pledged their support.

“I am honored to receive the endorsement of these effective, respected leaders, and thank all of them for everything they have done for the 5th District,” said Markey. “I am running for U.S. Senate so the blue-collar and high-tech communities of the 5th District and throughout the Commonwealth will have a champion fighting for their values and the issues that matter most.”

In the meantime, Lynch has said he would run, and then said he would not run, and then again said he might run. His indecision has led to numerous starts and stops, but apparently that will all be settled later this week.

Lynch is considered to be one of the more conservative members of the delegation despite being a Democrat – mostly due to his pro-life stance on abortion and other such issues. He also has tremendous union support and may postulate that he would garner the support of Boston Mayor Tom Menino.

Sitting U.S. Sen. John Kerry went through Senatorial hearings last week in anticipation of his potential appointment as the new United State Secretary of State.

He was confirmed by the U.S. Senate late on Tuesday, which left a vacancy in his Senate seat and triggered a process that will result in a 145-day special election.