Overview
- Among likely Democratic primary voters, Markey leads Moulton 51% to 28% when leaners are included, according to the UMass Amherst/WCVB survey fielded Oct. 21–29.
- Without leaners, the poll finds Markey at 44%, Moulton at 25%, Alex Rikleen at 5%, and 25% undecided; the margin of error for primary questions is ±6.1%.
- The survey tested alternate fields and found the contest would tighten if Rep. Ayanna Pressley entered, though she has not indicated any 2026 plans.
- In a hypothetical open race without Markey, Moulton holds a narrow edge over Pressley, with Boston Mayor Michelle Wu and former Rep. Joseph Kennedy III trailing.
- Markey’s job approval stands at 54%, and voter impressions skew to “old” for Markey and “unknown” for Moulton in word-cloud responses ahead of the Sept. 1, 2026 primary.