Overview
- Deaton kicked off his campaign Monday night in Worcester and released a video charging that “Ed Markey is MIA” and targeting career politicians.
- He is the first Republican to formally enter the 2026 contest, with an early endorsement from the Massachusetts GOP reported to discourage a primary fight.
- The 58-year-old attorney, small-business owner, and former crypto booster previously lost to Sen. Elizabeth Warren by about 20 points in 2024.
- His campaign says it will emphasize accountability, the affordability crisis, and support for working families, and he is promoting congressional term limits.
- Markey, 79, is defending his record with backing from organized labor and Democratic colleagues as he faces a primary challenge from Rep. Seth Moulton, with other Democrats also in the mix.