Prominent Massachusetts Democrats endorse Markey for Senate

Grossman noted that he had known Markey for more than 40 years in his endorsement.

{mosads}“The same strong values he learned growing up in Malden drive him today: integrity, fairness, and opportunity for all,” Grossman said. “Ed combines these principles with passion and creativity that make him not only a valued colleague but also an effective leader both here in Massachusetts and in Washington.”

These endorsements come the day after Markey received the backing of a number of mayors and state legislators in the state.

And Sen. John Kerry (D-Mass.), whose seat Markey is planning to pursue if Kerry is confirmed as secretary of State, as is expected, and Victoria Kennedy, the widow of former Sen. Ted Kennedy (D-Mass.), have all endorsed Markey as well.

That, coupled with the backing of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, makes him the clear front-runner in any potential Democratic primary. And most other viable candidates have already said they have no plans to run; state Sen. Ben Downing decided against it, and shortly after, Rep. Michael Capuano (D-Mass.) said he would not be entering the race either.

That leaves only Rep. Stephen Lynch (D-Mass.) as a possible primary challenger for Markey, and while sources say he has been preparing for a run by pursuing support in the state, particularly among union groups, he has not yet officially entered the race.