North Adams Transcript — Rep. Markey lists key issues in bid for vacant Senate seat
Gun control, the environment and the economy were among the issues that U.S. Rep. Ed Markey said would be priorities should he win the upcoming special election for the U.S. Senate seat left vacant by John Kerry.
The Berkshire Brigades sponsored the public introduction to Markey, who spoke to more than 100 people in the ITAM Lodge in Pittsfield about issues he thinks will affect both the Berkshires and the state at large.
“I know that this an area that cares passionately about the environment, cares passionately about broadband being distributed in a way that is universal,” Markey said after his speech.
“But I also know they have real issues of economic development, and I want to work with the mayors and selectmen out here to ensure we maximize the capacity for those communities.”
Markey will face U.S. Rep. Stephen F. Lynch in a special primary April 30 to see who will represent the Democratic Party in the June 25 special election to replace Kerry, who has been appointed secretary of state. Five GOP hopefuls so far have declared their intent seek the GOP nomination.
Markey’s appearance came a day after his opponent, U.S. Rep. Stephen F. Lynch, also visited the city. Berkshire Brigade Chairwoman Sheila Murray said Lynch has not responded to an invitation to address the group.
“They’re very, very different people,” she said, “and so it gives conservatives and progressives an opportunity to choose between the Democrats.”
Tuesday was Markey’s first campaign stop in the Berkshires, and he laid out his platform and shook hands with locals, some of whom said they were not familiar with the congressman.
