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Tenure

2013 - Present

Term ends

2027

Years in position

Predecessor

Mo Cowan

Massachusetts House of Representatives

U.S. House Massachusetts District 5

Edward J. Markey (Democratic Party) is a member of the U.S. Senate from Massachusetts. He assumed office on July 16, 2013. His current term ends on January 3, 2027.

Markey (Democratic Party) ran for re-election to the U.S. Senate to represent Massachusetts. He won in the general election on November 3, 2020.

Markey previously was a Democratic member of the United States House of Representatives representing Massachusetts' 5th Congressional District. Markey was first elected to the House in a 1976 special election replacing Rep. Tobert Macdonald after his death.^[1] Markey also previously served Massachusetts' 7th congressional district, but due to 2010 redistricting he represented district 5 until he won his Senate seat.^[2]

Prior to his election to the House, Markey served in the United States Military Reserves from 1968-1973. Markey is also a co-president of Parliamentarians for Nuclear-Nonproliferation and Disarmament, a nonpartisan forum designed to enhance discussions on legislation for nuclear disarmament. During his time as a senator and house representative, he pressed Congress to reduce the nuclear weapons budget so that funds could be diverted towards other sectors, such as education.^[3]

1 Biography
2 Career
3 Committee assignments
- 3.1 U.S. Senate
- 3.2 U.S. House
  - 3.2.1 2013
  - 3.2.2 2011-2012
4 Elections
5 Campaign themes
- 5.1 2020
- 5.2 2012
6 Key votes
7 Presidential preference
- 7.1 2020
- 7.2 2016
8 Campaign donors
9 Personal Gain Index
- 9.1 PGI: Change in net worth
- 9.2 PGI: Donation Concentration Metric
10 Analysis
11 Notable endorsements
12 Personal
13 See also
14 External links
15 Footnotes

Biography[edit]

Markey was born on July 11, 1946, in Malden, MA. After earning his bachelor's degree, Markey joined the U.S. Army Reserve. A year after earning his J.D., Markey entered politics as a member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives.

Career[edit]

Below is an abbreviated outline of Markey's academic, professional, and political career:^[4]

2013-present: U.S. Senator from Massachusetts
1976-2013: U.S. House of Representatives
1973-1976: Massachusetts House of Representatives
1972: Graduated from Boston College Law School with a Juris Doctor
1968-1973: United States Army Reserve
1968: Graduated from Boston College with a B.A.
1964: Graduated from Malden Catholic High School

Committee assignments[edit]

U.S. Senate[edit]

2021-2022

Markey was assigned to the following committees:^[Source]

2019-2020

Markey was assigned to the following committees:^[Source]

2017-2018[edit]

At the beginning of the 115th Congress, Markey was assigned to the following committees:^[5]

2015-2016[edit]

Markey served on the following committees:^[6]

Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee
Environment and Public Works Committee
Foreign Relations Committee
- Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health Policy Ranking Member
- Subcommittee on Europe and Regional Security Cooperation
- Subcommittee on Multilateral International Development, Multilateral Institutions, and International Economic, Energy, and Environmental Policy
- Subcommittee on Western Hemisphere, Transnational Crime, Civilian Security, Democracy, Human Rights, and Global Women's Issues
Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee

2013-2014[edit]

Markey served on the following committees:^[7]^[8]

Commerce, Science, and Transportation
- Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, and the Internet
- Subcommittee on Competitiveness, Innovation, and Export Promotion
- Subcommittee on Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries, and Coast Guard
- Subcommittee on Science and Space
- Subcommittee on Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Infrastructure, Safety, and Security
Environment and Public Works
Foreign Relations
- Subcommittee on East Asian and Pacific Affairs
- Subcommittee on European Affairs
- Subcommittee on International Development and Foreign Assistance, Economic Affairs and International Environmental Protection, and Peace Corps - Chair
Small Business and Entrepreneurship

U.S. House[edit]

2013[edit]

Energy and Commerce
- Subcommittee on Energy and Power
- Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations
- Subcommittee on Communications and Technology
Natural Resources, Ranking Member

2011-2012[edit]

Markey was a member of the following House committees:^[9]^[10]

Energy and Commerce
- Communications and Technology
- Energy and Power
- Oversight and Investigations
Natural Resources, Ranking Member

Elections[edit]

2020[edit]

United States Senate election in Massachusetts, 2020 (September 1 Democratic primary)

United States Senate election in Massachusetts, 2020 (September 1 Republican primary)

General election

General election for U.S. Senate Massachusetts

Incumbent Edward J. Markey defeated Kevin O'Connor and Shiva Ayyadurai in the general election for U.S. Senate Massachusetts on November 3, 2020.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Edward J. Markey (D)	66.2	2,357,809
	Kevin O'Connor (R)	33.0	1,177,765
	Shiva Ayyadurai (R) (Write-in)	0.6	21,134
	Other/Write-in votes	0.2	7,428

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 3,564,136
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Andre Gray (G)
Frederick Mayock (Independent)

Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for U.S. Senate Massachusetts

Incumbent Edward J. Markey defeated Joseph Kennedy III in the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate Massachusetts on September 1, 2020.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Edward J. Markey	55.4	782,694
	Joseph Kennedy III	44.5	629,359
	Other/Write-in votes	0.1	1,935

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 1,413,988
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Republican primary election

Republican primary for U.S. Senate Massachusetts

Kevin O'Connor defeated Shiva Ayyadurai in the Republican primary for U.S. Senate Massachusetts on September 1, 2020.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Kevin O'Connor	59.7	158,590
	Shiva Ayyadurai	39.4	104,782
	Other/Write-in votes	0.8	2,245

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 265,617
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Libertarian primary election[edit]

No Libertarians filed for this race. Vermin Supreme ran as a write-in and received 27 votes. He did not receive enough votes to make the general election ballot.

Candidate profile[edit]

Edward J. Markey

Party: Democratic Party

Incumbent: Yes

Political Office:

U.S. Senate (Assumed office: 2013)

U.S. House of Representatives (1976-2013)

Massachusetts House of Representatives (1973-1976)

Biography: Markey received a bachelor's degree from Boston College and a J.D. from Boston College School of Law. He served in the U.S. Army Reserve and worked as a lawyer in private practice before entering public office.

Key Messages

Markey's campaign website said, "Throughout his career, Ed has refused to compromise his progressive values in his fight to build a Commonwealth and country that are fair, just, and equitable for all. He has never been afraid to disrupt the status quo."

Markey's campaign website said, "It was his working-class upbringing that taught Ed the value of hard work and inspired him to spend his life seeking to provide the same opportunities he had, for every child, no matter their race, socioeconomic background, or zip code."

Sources: Ed Markey's 2020 campaign website, "Home," accessed August 24, 2020; Biographical Directory of the U.S. Congress, "Markey, Edward John," accessed August 24, 2020

This information was current as of the candidate's run for U.S. Senate Massachusetts in 2020

2014[edit]

See also: United States Senate elections in Massachusetts, 2014

Markey ran for re-election to the U.S. Senate in 2014. He ran unopposed in the Democratic primary on September 9, 2014. He defeated Republican nominee Brian Herr in the general election on November 4, 2014.^[11] The Cook Political Report considered the seat safe for Democrats.^[12]

U.S. Senate, Massachusetts General Election, 2014
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Ed Markey Incumbent	59%	1,289,944
	Republican	Brian Herr	36.2%	791,950
	Write-in	Other	0.1%	3,078
	Blank	None	4.7%	101,819
Total Votes				2,186,791
Source: Massachusetts Secretary of State Official Results

2013[edit]

See also: United States Senate special election in Massachusetts, 2013

Markey won election to the United States Senate seat vacated by John Kerry, after his confirmation by the U.S. Senate to Secretary of State.^[13]^[14]

Markey won the nomination in the Democratic primary on April 30, 2013, defeating challenger Stephen Lynch. The general election was held on June 25, 2013.^[15] He defeated Gabriel Gomez and Richard Heos (I) in the general election to win the seat.^[16]

U.S. Senate, Massachusetts Special General Election, 2013
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Ed Markey	54.9%	645,429
	Republican	Gabriel Gomez	44.7%	525,307
	Twelve Visions Party	Richard Heos	0.4%	4,550
Total Votes				1,175,286
Source: Election Results from Massachusetts Elections Division

Endorsements[edit]

American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees Council 93

"When it comes to fighting for the middle class and securing adequate federal funding for the essential public services that Massachusetts needs and we provide, we know we can always count on Ed Markey."^[17]

Markey's campaign released a list of over 100 state politicians on April 25, 2013.^[18]

The list included House Speaker Robert DeLeo, Attorney General Martha Coakley and Treasurer Steven Grossman.^[18] It also included 17 state senators, 63 state representatives and 18 mayors – including all the mayors and state legislators in the 5th Congressional District, which Markey represents.^[18]

On April 27, 2013, Caroline Kennedy announced her endorsement for Markey.

In a press-release Markey stated, "I'm so proud to have the support of Caroline Kennedy, a friend and passionate advocate for our children, families, and seniors. I share Caroline's commitment to taking on big fights for the people of Massachusetts, and in the Senate I will fight to defend President Obama's historic health care reform law, protect a woman's right to choose, and ensure all people have access to the opportunities to succeed in the 21st century."^[19]

2012[edit]

See also: Redistricting in Massachusetts and United States House of Representatives elections in Massachusetts, 2012

Markey ran for re-election in 2012. He was redistricted and sought re-election in the 5th Congressional District of Massachusetts. He faced no opposition in the Democratic primary on September 6, 2012.^[20]

U.S. House, Massachusetts District 5 General Election, 2012
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Ed Markey Incumbent	70.7%	257,490
	Republican	Tom Tierney	22.8%	82,944
	N/A	All Others	0.2%	675
	N/A	Blank Votes	6.3%	23,092
Total Votes				364,201
Source: Massachusetts Secretary of State "Return of Votes"

Full history[edit]

To view the full congressional electoral history for Ed Markey, click [show] to expand the section.

2010

On November 2, 2010, Ed Markey won re-election to the United States House. He defeated Gerry Dembrowski (R) in the general election.^[21]

U.S. House, Massachusetts District 7 General Election, 2010
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Edward J. Markey incumbent	66.4%	145,696
	Republican	Gerry Dembrowski	33.5%	73,467
	Various	All Others	0.1%	194
Total Votes				219,357

2008

On November 4, 2008, Ed Markey won re-election to the United States House. He defeated John Cunningham (R) in the general election.^[22]

U.S. House, Massachusetts District 7 General Election, 2008
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Ed Markey incumbent	70.5%	212,304
	Republican	John Cunningham	22.6%	67,978
	N/A	Blank/Scattering	6.8%	20,528
	N/A	Others	0.1%	400
Total Votes				301,210

2006

On November 7, 2006, Ed Markey won re-election to the United States House. He ran unopposed in the general election.^[23]

U.S. House, Massachusetts District 7 General Election, 2006
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Ed Markey incumbent	75%	171,902
	N/A	Blank/Scattering	23.8%	54,560
	N/A	Others	1.3%	2,889
Total Votes				229,351

2004

On November 2, 2004, Ed Markey won re-election to the United States House. He defeated Kenneth Chase (R) and James Hall (I) in the general election.^[24]

U.S. House, Massachusetts District 7 General Election, 2004
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Ed Markey incumbent	69.3%	202,399
	Republican	Kenneth Chase	20.6%	60,334
	Independent	James Hall	4.2%	12,139
	N/A	Blank/Scattering	5.8%	17,088
	N/A	Others	0.1%	227
Total Votes				292,187

2002

On November 5, 2002, Ed Markey won re-election to the United States House. He defeated Daniel Melnechuk (Write-in) in the general election.^[25]

U.S. House, Massachusetts District 7 General Election, 2002
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Ed Markey incumbent	72.4%	170,968
	Write-in	Daniel Melnechuk	0.4%	863
	N/A	Blank/Scattering	26.3%	61,976
	N/A	Others	0.9%	2,206
Total Votes				236,013

2000

On November 7, 2000, Ed Markey won re-election to the United States House. He ran unopposed in the general election.^[26]

U.S. House, Massachusetts District 7 General Election, 2000
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Ed Markey incumbent	75.1%	211,543
	N/A	Blank/Scattering	23.5%	66,154
	N/A	Others	1.4%	4,040
Total Votes				281,737

1998

On November 3, 1998, Ed Markey won re-election to the United States House. He defeated Patricia Long (R) in the general election.^[27]

U.S. House, Massachusetts District 7 General Election, 1998
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Ed Markey incumbent	70.6%	137,178
	Republican	Patricia Long	29.3%	56,977
	N/A	Others	0.1%	150
Total Votes				194,305

1996

On November 5, 1996, Ed Markey won re-election to the United States House. He defeated Patricia Long (R) in the general election.^[28]

U.S. House, Massachusetts District 7 General Election, 1996
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Ed Markey incumbent	69.8%	177,053
	Republican	Patricia Long	30.1%	76,407
	N/AYEAR	Others	0%	110
Total Votes				253,570

1994

On November 8, 1994, Ed Markey won re-election to the United States House. He defeated Brad Bailey (R) in the general election.^[29]

U.S. House, Massachusetts District 7 General Election, 1994
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Ed Markey incumbent	68.7%	172,753
	Republican	Brad Bailey	31.2%	78,487
	N/A	Other	0%	69
Total Votes				251,309

1992

On November 3, 1992, Ed Markey won re-election to the United States House. He defeated Stephen A. Sohn (R) and Robert B. Antonelli (I) in the general election.^[30]

U.S. House, Massachusetts District 7 General Election, 1992
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Ed Markey incumbent	62.1%	174,837
	Republican	Stephen A. Sohn	27.8%	78,262
	Independent	Robert B. Antonelli	10.1%	28,421
	N/A	Other	0%	38
Total Votes				281,558

1990

On November 6, 1990, Ed Markey won re-election to the United States House. He defeated write-in candidates in the general election.^[31]

U.S. House, Massachusetts District 7 General Election, 1990
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Ed Markey incumbent	65.7%	155,380
	N/A	Write-in	34.3%	81,200
Total Votes				236,580

1988

On November 8, 1988, Ed Markey won re-election to the United States House. He defeated write-in candidates in the general election.^[32]

U.S. House, Massachusetts District 7 General Election, 1988
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Ed Markey incumbent	100%	188,647
	N/A	Write-in	0%	63
Total Votes				188,710

1986

On November 4, 1986, Ed Markey won re-election to the United States House. He defeated write-in candidates in the general election.^[33]

U.S. House, Massachusetts District 7 General Election, 1986
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Ed Markey incumbent	71.7%	124,183
	N/A	Write-in	28.3%	48,977
Total Votes				173,160

1984

On November 6, 1984, Ed Markey won re-election to the United States House. He defeated S. Lester Ralph (R) in the general election.^[34]

U.S. House, Massachusetts District 7 General Election, 1984
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Ed Markey incumbent	71.4%	167,211
	Republican	S. Lester Ralph	28.6%	66,930
	N/A	Write-in	0%	49
Total Votes				234,190

1982

On November 2, 1982, Ed Markey won re-election to the United States House. He defeated David M. Basile (R) in the general election.^[35]

U.S. House, Massachusetts District 7 General Election, 1982
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Ed Markey incumbent	77.8%	151,305
	Republican	David M. Basile	22.2%	43,063
	N/A	Write-in	0%	1
Total Votes				194,369

1980

On November 4, 1980, Ed Markey won re-election to the United States House. He defeated write-in candidates in the general election.^[36]

U.S. House, Massachusetts District 7 General Election, 1980
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Ed Markey incumbent	100%	155,759
	N/A	Write-in	0%	24
Total Votes				155,783

1978

On November 7, 1978, Ed Markey won re-election to the United States House. He defeated James J. Murphy (I) in the general election.^[37]

U.S. House, Massachusetts District 7 General Election, 1978
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Ed Markey incumbent	84.8%	145,615
	Republican	James J. Murphy	15.2%	26,017
	N/A	Write-in	0%	14
Total Votes				171,646

1976

On November 2, 1976, Ed Markey won election to the United States House. He defeated Richard W. Daly (R), James J. Murphy (I) and Harry G. Chickles (I) in the general election.^[38]

U.S. House, Massachusetts District 7 General Election, 1976
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Ed Markey	76.9%	162,126
	Republican	Richard W. Daly	17.6%	37,063
	Independent	James J. Murphy	3.2%	6,851
	Independent	Harry G. Chickles	2.3%	4,748
	N/A	Write-in	0%	21
Total Votes				210,809

Campaign themes[edit]

2020[edit]

Ballotpedia survey responses

Edward J. Markey did not complete Ballotpedia's 2020 Candidate Connection survey.

2012[edit]

On his campaign website, Markey listed 12 issues.^[39]

Civil Rights

Excerpt: "Ed Markey believes in an America that fully respects and protects the civil rights guaranteed by our Constitution, and which does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, national origin, religion, sex, or sexual orientation."

Economic Development

Excerpt: "Ed Markey understands that one of the most important roles the federal government can play is that of economic engine, leveraging public with private funds to revitalize urban and suburban areas. From his earliest days as a member of Congress, Ed Markey has worked tirelessly to secure targeted economic development dollars for downtown redevelopment and other projects important to the communities in the 7th District."

Energy Independence

Ed Markey, "Markey: GOP Wants No More Clean Energy Solutions"

Excerpt: "An environmental champion, Ed Markey has provided pioneering leadership in protection our environment, in the fight against global warming and in creating a roadmap for energy independence in the United States."

Health

Excerpt: "Ed Markey believes that all Americans deserve access to high quality healthcare and is committed to making universal healthcare a reality."

Homeland Security

Excerpt: "In 2003, the House of Representatives established the Select Committee on Homeland Security, and Ed Markey was chosen by the leadership to serve on this important new panel. His appointment reflected years of work he had undertaken prior to September 11, 2001, to try to increase terrorism preparedness at critical infrastructure such as nuclear power plants and LNG facilities."

Human Rights

Excerpt: "Ed Markey believes that America's foreign policy should respect and uphold internationally-recognized principles of human rights. Our country has an important leadership role to play in providing hope to those around the world who are denied the right to vote in free and fair elections, the right to organize politically, the right of citizens to engage in political dissent and peaceful protest."

Immigration

Excerpt: "As the grandson of Irish immigrants, Ed Markey appreciates how America has, generation after generation, renewed itself by assimilating new immigrants into this great country. America continues to draw strength, vitality, and energy every day from a process of assimilating cultures, religions, and ethnic backgrounds of every kind from around the world."

Nuclear Weapons

Excerpt: "Ed Markey believes that it should be a paramount concern of the nations of the world that we reduce and ultimately eliminate nuclear weapons from the face of the planet."

Privacy

Excerpt: "Ed Markey is one of the most vigorous champions of consumer privacy protection in Congress."

Telecommunications

Excerpt: "Ed Markey is the Chairman of the Subcommittee on Telecommunications and the Internet and has served on that panel since his first election in 1976. In this capacity, Ed has worked on every major telecommunications law passed in the last 30 years."

Veterans

Excerpt: "Ed Markey believes that the VA was created to serve all veterans, not just those veterans it can "afford" to serve. All veterans, regardless of income, have earned the right to high-quality health care services."

War in Iraq

Excerpt: "But as we now know, the Bush Administration never cared whether or not there were weapons of mass destruction in Iraq. The fact that Saddam Hussein is gone is good. But it was not worth a single American life to invade Iraq since Saddam Hussein did not have an active nuclear weapons program."^[39]

Key votes[edit]

See also: Key votes

Ballotpedia monitors legislation that receives a vote and highlights the ones that we consider to be key to understanding where elected officials stand on the issues. To read more about how we identify key votes, click here.

Key votes: 116th Congress, 2019-2020[edit]

Key votes: 115th Congress, 2017-2018[edit]

For detailed information about each vote, click here.

Votes on domestic policy (click to expand)

Voted Yea on: First Step Act of 2018 (S 756)

Motion Agreed to (87-12) on December 18, 2018

Proposed making changes to the criminal justice system.^[40]

Voted Yea on: Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (HR 2)

Conference Report Agreed to (87-13) on December 11, 2018

Proposed providing funding for commodity support, conservation, trade and international food aid, nutrition assistance, farm credit, rural development, research and extension activities, forestry, horticulture, and crop insurance through fiscal year 2023.^[41]

Voted Nay on: "Brett M. Kavanaugh, of Maryland, to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States" (PN2259)

Nomination Confirmed (50-48) on October 6, 2018

Brett M. Kavanaugh, of Maryland, to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States^[42]

Voted Nay on: "Brett M. Kavanaugh, of Maryland, to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States" (PN2259)

Cloture Motion Agreed to (51-49) on October 5, 2018

Brett M. Kavanaugh, of Maryland, to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States^[43]

Voted Yea on: Agriculture and Nutrition Act of 2018 (HR 2)

Bill Passed (86-11, 3/5 majority required) on June 28, 2018

Proposed providing funding for commodity support, conservation, trade and international food aid, nutrition assistance, farm credit, rural development, research and extension activities, forestry, horticulture, and crop insurance.^[44]

Voted Nay on: Immigration reform proposal from Sen. Chuck Grassley and the Trump administration (S Amdt 1959 to HR 2579)

Cloture Motion Rejected (39-60, 3/5 majority required) on February 15, 2018

Proposed providing a path to citizenship for 1.8 million individuals brought into the U.S. without legal permission as children, $25 billion for border security, limits on chain migration or family-based migration, and eliminating the visa lottery system.^[45]

Voted Yea on: Immigration reform proposal from the Common Sense Coalition (S Amdt 1958 to HR 2579)

Cloture Motion Rejected (54-45, 3/5 majority required) on February 15, 2018

Proposed providing a path to citizenship for individuals brought into the U.S. without legal permission as children, $25 billion for border security, and limitations on chain or family-based immigration.^[46]

Voted Nay on: Stop Dangerous Sanctuary Cities Act amendment (S Amdt 1948 to S Amdt 1959)

Cloture Motion Rejected (54-45, 3/5 majority required) on February 15, 2018

Proposed withholding funding from sanctuary jurisdictions for not cooperating with federal immigration officials.^[47]

Voted Yea on: Coons-McCain immigration plan (S Amdt 1955 to S Amdt 1958)

Cloture Motion Rejected (52-47, 3/5 majority required) on February 15, 2018

Proposed providing a path to citizenship for individuals brought into the U.S. without legal permission as children and conducting a study to determine what border security measures were needed. It also proposed requiring the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to secure the U.S.-Mexico border by 2021.^[48]

Voted Nay on: Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act (S 2311)

Cloture on the Motion to Proceed Rejected (51-46, 3/5 majority required) on January 29, 2018

Proposed amending the federal criminal code to make it a crime for any person to perform or attempt to perform an abortion if the probable post-fertilization age of the fetus was 20 weeks or more. The bill proposed providing exceptions for an abortion: (1) that was necessary to save the life of the pregnant woman, or (2) when the pregnancy was the result of rape or incest.^[49]

Voted Nay on: An amendment to repeal the requirements for individuals to enroll in health insurance and for employers to offer it—"Skinny bill" (S Amdt 667 to S Amdt 267 to HR 1628 the American Health Care Act of 2017)

Amendment Rejected (49-51) on July 28, 2017

The amendment proposed repealing the requirements for individuals to enroll in health insurance and for employers to offer it.^[50]

Voted Nay on: An amendment to repeal the ACA, including Paul amendment (No. 271) (S Amdt 271 to S Amdt 267 to HR 1628)

Amendment Rejected (45-55) on July 26, 2017

An amendment to repeal the ACA, including Paul amendment (No. 271)^[51]

Voted Nay on: Motion to advance the Better Care Reconciliation Act of 2017, including Cruz and Portman amendments (S Amdt 270 to S Amdt 267 to HR 1628)

Motion Rejected (43-57, 3/5 majority required) on July 25, 2017

A procedural vote to advance the Better Care Reconciliation Act of 2017 (BCRA), including the Cruz and Portman amendments.^[52]

Voted Nay on: Motion to begin debate on the American Health Care Act of 2017 (HR 1628)

Motion to Proceed Agreed to (50-50, Vice President voted Yea) on July 25, 2017

Proposed providing for reconciliation pursuant to title II of the concurrent resolution on the budget for fiscal year 2017.^[53]

Voted Nay on: Neil M. Gorsuch, of Colorado, to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (PN55(4)—confirmation vote)

Nomination Confirmed (54-45) on April 7, 2017

Neil M. Gorsuch, of Colorado, to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States—confirmation vote.^[54]

Voted Nay on: Neil M. Gorsuch, of Colorado, to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (PN55(3))

Cloture Motion Agreed to (55-45) on April 6, 2017

Neil M. Gorsuch, of Colorado, to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States—second vote to end debate and move to a vote on Gorsuch's nomination under the new precedent requiring only a simple majority to pass.^[55]

Voted Yea on: Neil M. Gorsuch, of Colorado, to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (PN55(2))

Decision of Chair Not Sustained (48-52) on April 6, 2017

Neil M. Gorsuch, of Colorado, to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States—a vote to keep the Senate precedent of requiring 60 votes to close debate on Supreme Court nominations.^[56]

Voted Nay on: Neil M. Gorsuch, of Colorado, to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (PN55)

Cloture Motion Rejected (55-45, 3/5 majority required) on April 6, 2017

Neil M. Gorsuch, of Colorado, to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States—initial vote to end debate and move to a vote on Gorsuch's nomination.^[57]

Votes on economic affairs and regulations (click to expand)

Voted Yea on: "Department of Defense and Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Act, 2019" (HR 6157)

Conference Report Agreed to (93-7) on September 18, 2018

Proposed authorizing FY2019 appropriations and policies for the Departments of Defense, Health and Human Services (HHS), Labor, and Education.^[58]

Voted Nay on: "Energy and Water, Legislative Branch, and Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Act, 2019" (HR 5895)

Conference Report Agreed to (92-5) on September 12, 2018

Proposed authorizing FY2019 appropriations and policies for the Department of Energy, water resources, the legislative branch, military construction, and the Department of Veterans Affairs, among other programs.^[59]

Voted Yea on: "Department of Defense and Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Act, 2019" (HR 6157)

Bill Passed (85-7) on August 23, 2018

Proposed authorizing FY2019 appropriations and policies for the Departments of Defense, Health and Human Services (HHS), Labor, and Education.^[60]

Voted Nay on: "Energy and Water, Legislative Branch, and Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Act, 2019" (HR 5895)

Bill Passed (86-5) on June 25, 2018

Proposed authorizing FY2019 appropriations and policies for the Department of Energy, water resources, the legislative branch, military construction, and the Department of Veterans Affairs, among other programs.^[61]

Voted Nay on: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2018 (HR 1625)

Motion Agreed to (65-32) on March 23, 2018

Proposed providing appropriations for fiscal year 2018, and for other purposes.^[62]

Voted Nay on: The Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 (HR 1892)

Motion Agreed to (71-28) on February 9, 2018

Proposed providing further continuing appropriations through March 23, 2018^[63]

Voted Nay on: Further Additional Continuing Appropriations Act, 2018 (HR 695)

Cloture Motion Rejected (55-44, 3/5 majority required) on February 8, 2018

Proposed providing further continuing appropriations through March 23, 2018.^[64]

Voted Nay on: Further Additional Continuing Appropriations Act, 2018 (HR 195)

Motion Agreed to (81-18) on January 22, 2018

Proposed providing further continuing appropriations through February 8, 2018.^[65]

Voted Nay on: Further Additional Continuing Appropriations Act, 2018 (HR 195)

Cloture Motion Agreed to (81-18, 3/5 majority required) on January 22, 2018

Proposed providing further continuing appropriations through February 8, 2018.^[66]

Voted Nay on: Further Additional Continuing Appropriations Act, 2018 (HR 195)

Cloture Motion Rejected (50-49, 3/5 majority required) on January 19, 2018

Proposed providing further continuing appropriations through January 19, 2018.^[67]

Voted Nay on: Further Additional Continuing Appropriations Act, 2018 (HR 1370)

Motion Agreed to (66-32, 3/5 majority required) on December 21, 2017

Proposed providing further continuing appropriations through January 19, 2018.^[68]

Voted Nay on: Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (HR 1)

Motion Agreed to (51-48) on December 20, 2017

Proposed providing for reconciliation pursuant to titles II and V of the concurrent resolution on the budget for fiscal year 2018 and proposed changes to the tax code.^[69]

Voted Nay on: "A joint resolution making further continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2018, and for other purposes." (HJ Res 123)

Joint Resolution Passed (81-14) on December 7, 2017

Proposed funding the government until December 22, 2017.^[70]

Voted Nay on: Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (HR 1)

Bill Passed (51-49) on December 2, 2017

Proposed amending the Internal Revenue Code to reduce tax rates and modify policies, credits, and deductions for individuals and businesses.^[71]

Voted Nay on: A concurrent resolution establishing the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2018 and setting forth the appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2019 through 2027. (H Con Res 71)

Concurrent Resolution Agreed to (51-49) on October 19, 2017

Proposed establishing the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2018 and setting forth the appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2019 through 2027.^[72]

Voted Yea on: Disaster Relief Appropriations Act, 2017 (Included amendments to suspend the debt ceiling and fund the government) (HR 601)

Motion Agreed to (80-17) on September 7, 2017

Proposed suspending the debt ceiling and funding the government until December 8, 2017, and providing funding for Hurricanes Harvey and Irma relief efforts.^[73]

Voted Yea on: Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2017 (HR 244)

Motion Agreed to (79-18) on May 4, 2017

The $1.2 trillion budget bill proposed funding the government through the end of the fiscal year on September 30, 2017.^[74]

Votes on foreign policy and national security issues (click to expand)

Voted Yea on: "A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities in the Republic of Yemen that have not been authorized by Congress." (SJ Res 54)

Joint Resolution Passed (56-41) on December 13, 2018

Proposed removing United States Armed Forces from hostilities in the Republic of Yemen that were not authorized by Congress.^[75]

Voted Yea on: National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018 (HR 2810)

Bill Passed (89-8) on September 18, 2017

Proposed authorizing appropriations for fiscal year 2018 for military activities of the Department of Defense, for military construction, and for defense activities of the Department of Energy, and to prescribe military personnel strengths for such fiscal year, and for other purposes. On November 15, 2017, the Senate passed the defense policy bill by voice vote. This bill was the result of compromises made in the conference report. For more information on the compromise bill, click here.^[76]^[77]

Voted Yea on: Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (HR 3364)

Bill Passed (98-2) on July 27, 2017

Proposed providing congressional review and proposed countering aggression by the governments of Iran, the Russian Federation, and North Korea, and for other purposes.^[78]

Voted Yea on: Countering Iran's Destabilizing Activities Act of 2017 (S 722)

Bill Passed (98-2) on June 15, 2017

Proposed providing congressional review and proposed countering aggression by the governments of Iran, the Russian Federation, and North Korea, and for other purposes.^[79]

Key votes: Previous sessions of Congress[edit]

Key votes (click "show" to expand or "hide" to contract)
114th Congress[edit] The first session of the 114th Congress enacted into law six out of the 2,616 introduced bills (0.2 percent). Comparatively, the 113th Congress had 1.3 percent of introduced bills enacted into law in the first session. In the second session, the 114th Congress enacted 133 out of 3,159 introduced bills (4.2 percent). Comparatively, the 113th Congress had 7.0 percent of introduced bills enacted into law in the second session.^[80]^[81] The Senate confirmed 18,117 out of 21,815 executive nominations received (83 percent). For more information pertaining to Markey's voting record in the 114th Congress, please see the below sections.^[82] Economic and fiscal[edit] Trade Act of 2015[edit] See also: The Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal, 2015 On May 22, 2015, the Senate passed HR 1314, which was used as a legislative vehicle for trade legislation with the titles "Trade Act of 2015" and the "Bipartisan Congressional Trade Priorities and Accountability Act of 2015," by a vote of 62-37. The bill proposed giving the president trade promotion authority (TPA). TPA, also known as fast track authority, allows the president to negotiate trade deals that cannot be amended by Congress. Congress casts a simple up or down vote on a trade agreement, and the legislation only requires a simple majority for approval. The bill also included a statement of trade priorities and provisions for trade adjustment assistance. Markey voted with 30 other Democratic senators against the bill.^[83]^[84] Trade promotion authority On June 24, 2015, by a vote of 60-38, the Senate approved trade promotion authority (TPA) as part of HR 2146 - Defending Public Safety Employees' Retirement Act. Markey was one of 31 Democrats to vote against the bill. After, Senate Republican leadership honored a pledge to support trade adjustment assistance (TAA) by passing the measure as part of HR 1295 - Trade Preferences Extension Act of 2015 by voice vote. The House passed HR 1295 the following day, on June 25, 2015, and both TPA and TAA were signed into law on June 29, 2015.^[85]^[86]^[87] 2016 Budget proposal[edit] On May 5, 2015, the Senate voted to approve SConRes11, a congressional budget proposal for fiscal year 2016, by a vote of 51-48. The non-binding resolution will be used to create 12 appropriations bills to fund the government before funding runs out on October 1, 2015. The vote marked the first time since 2009 that Congress approved a joint budget resolution. All 44 Democrats, including Markey, voted against the resolution.^[88]^[89]^[90] Defense spending authorization[edit] On November 10, 2015, the Senate passed S 1356 - the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016 by a vote of 91-3. The second version of the $607 billion national defense bill included "$5 billion in cuts to match what was approved in the budget" and language preventing the closure of the Guantanamo Bay military prison.^[91]^[92] Markey voted with 41 Democrats, 48 Republicans and one independent in favor of the bill.^[93] On November 5, 2015, the House passed the bill by a vote of 370-58, and President Barack Obama signed it into law on November 25, 2015.^[94] On June 18, 2015, the Senate passed HR 1735 - National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016 by a vote of 71-25. The bill "authorizes FY2016 appropriations and sets forth policies for Department of Defense (DOD) programs and activities, including military personnel strengths. It does not provide budget authority, which is provided in subsequent appropriations legislation." Markey voted with 21 Democrats, two Republicans and one Independent against the bill.^[95] The House passed the bill on May 15, 2015.^[96] President Barack Obama vetoed the bill on October 22, 2015.^[97] 2015 budget[edit] On October 30, 2015, the Senate passed HR 1314 - Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015 by a vote of 64-35. The bill increased military and domestic spending levels and suspended the debt ceiling until March 2017.^[98] Markey voted with 43 Democrats, 18 Republicans and two independents in favor of the bill.^[99] It passed the House on October 28, 2015.^[100] President Barack Obama signed it into law on November 2, 2015. Foreign Affairs[edit] Iran nuclear deal[edit] See also: Iran nuclear agreement, 2015 On May 7, 2015, the Senate voted to approve HR 1191 - A bill to provide for congressional review and oversight of agreements relating to Iran's nuclear program, and for other purposes, by a vote of 98-1. The bill required President Barack Obama to submit the details of the nuclear deal with Iran for congressional review. Congress had 60 days to review the deal and vote to approve, disapprove or take no action on the deal. During the review period, sanctions on Iran could not be lifted. All 43 Democratic senators who voted, including Markey, approved the bill.^[101]^[102] Hire More Heroes Act of 2015 On September 10, 2015, the Senate voted to filibuster the measure to disapprove of the Iran nuclear deal by a vote of 58-42.^[103] Sixty votes were needed to proceed to HJ Res 61 - the Hire More Heroes Act of 2015, the legislative vehicle the Senate was expected to use to disapprove of the Iran nuclear deal. Markey voted with 39 Democrats and two Independents against proceeding to the measure of disapproval.^[104] Hire More Heroes Act of 2015 follow up votes On September 15, 2015, the Senate voted for a second time to filibuster the measure to disapprove of the Iran nuclear deal by a vote of 56-42.^[105] Sixty votes were needed to proceed to HJ Res 61 - the Hire More Heroes Act of 2015, the legislative vehicle the Senate was expected to use to disapprove of the Iran nuclear deal. Markey voted with 39 Democrats and two Independents against proceeding to the measure of disapproval.^[106] The legislation was voted on for a third time on September 17, and it failed for a third time by a vote of 56-42.^[107] Hire More Heroes Act of 2015 fourth vote On September 17, 2015, the Senate voted to filibuster a vote on S.Amdt.2656 to S.Amdt.2640 by a vote of 53-45. The amendment proposed prohibiting "the President from waiving, suspending, reducing, providing relief from, or otherwise limiting the application of sanctions pursuant to an agreement related to the nuclear program of Iran."^[108] Markey voted with 42 Democrats and two Independents against proceeding to the amendment.^[109] Domestic[edit] USA FREEDOM Act of 2015[edit] On June 2, 2015, the Senate passed HR 2048 - the Uniting and Strengthening America by Fulfilling Rights and Ensuring Effective Discipline Over Monitoring Act of 2015 or the USA FREEDOM Act of 2015 by a vote of 67-32. The legislation revised HR 3199 - the USA PATRIOT Improvement and Reauthorization Act of 2005 by terminating the bulk collection of metadata under Sec. 215 of the act, requiring increased reporting from the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court and requiring the use of "a specific selection term as the basis for national security letters that request information from wire or electronic communication service providers, financial institutions, or consumer reporting agencies." Markey voted with 42 Democrats, 23 Republicans and one Independent to approve the legislation. It became law on June 2, 2015.^[110]^[111] Cyber security[edit] On October 27, 2015, the Senate passed S 754 - the Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act of 2015 by a vote of 74-21.^[112] The bill proposed procedures that would allow federal agencies and private entities to share information about cyber threats. Markey voted with 13 Democrats, six Republicans and one independent against the bill.^[113] Immigration[edit] On October 20, 2015, the Senate voted against proceeding to a vote on S 2146 - the Stop Sanctuary Policies and Protect Americans Act by a vote of 54-45. The bill proposed withholding federal funding from "sanctuary jurisdictions" that violate the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 and other federal immigration laws. In addition, the bill proposed increasing "penalties for individuals who illegally reenter the United States after being removed" and providing "liability protection for State and local law enforcement who cooperate with Federal law enforcement."^[114] Markey voted with 41 Democrats, one Republican and two Independents against proceeding to the bill.^[115] 113th Congress[edit] The second session of the 113th Congress enacted into law 224 out of the 3215 introduced bills (7 percent). Comparatively, the 112th Congress had 4.2 percent of introduced bills enacted into law in the second session.^[116] The Senate confirmed 13,949 out of 18,323 executive nominations received (76.1 percent). For more information pertaining to Markey's voting record in the 113th Congress, please see the below sections.^[117] Note: Markey won special election to the Senate seat in June 2013. His record reflects both his votes in the House and the Senate for the 113th Congress. National security[edit] Committee vote on Syria[edit] See also: United States involvement in Syria On September 4, 2013, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee narrowly approved an authorization for President Obama to use limited force against Syria.^[118]^[119] The vote came after a three-hour briefing with top Obama administration officials, including Secretary of State John Kerry and James Clapper, the director of national intelligence.^[120] Of the nine Democratic members and eight Republican members that make up the committee, seven Democrats members and three Republicans voted in favor, while five Republicans and two Democrats opposed the authorization.^[120] Markey was the only member of the committee to dodge the yes-no vote by voting "present."^[121]^[122] Economy[edit] Farm bill[edit] On February 4, 2014, the Democratic controlled Senate approved the Federal Agriculture Reform and Risk Management Act of 2013, H.R. 2642, also known as the Farm Bill.^[123] It passed the Senate with a vote of 68-32. The nearly 1,000-page bill reformed and continued various programs of the Department of Agriculture through 2018. The $1 trillion bill expanded crop insurance for farmers by $7 billion over the next decade and created new subsidies for rice and peanut growers that would kick in when prices drop.^[124] However, cuts to the food stamp program cut an average of $90 per month for 1.7 million people in 15 states.^[124] Markey was one of nine Democratic senators who voted against the bill. 2014 Budget[edit] On January 16, 2014, the Democratic-controlled Senate approved H.R. 3547, a $1.1 trillion spending bill to fund the government through September 30, 2014.^[125]^[126] The Senate voted 72-26 for the 1,582 page bill, with 17 Republicans and 55 Democrats voting in favor of the bill.^[126] The omnibus package included 12 annual spending bills to fund federal operations.^[127] It included a 1 percent increase in the paychecks of federal workers and military personnel, a $1 billion increase in Head Start funding for early childhood education, reduced funding to the Internal Revenue Service and the Environmental Protection Agency and left the Affordable Care Act without any drastic cuts. Markey voted with the Democratic Party in favor of the bill.^[125]^[126] Government shutdown[edit] See also: United States budget debate, 2013 During the shutdown in October 2013, the Senate rejected, down party lines, every House-originated bill that stripped the budget of funding for the Affordable Care Act. A deal was reached late on October 16, 2013, just hours before the debt ceiling deadline. The bill to reopen the government, H.R. 2775, lifted the $16.7 trillion debt limit and funded the government through January 15, 2014. Federal employees also received retroactive pay for the shutdown period. The only concession made by Senate Democrats was to require income verification for Obamacare subsidies.^[128] The final vote on H.R. 2775 was 81-18, with all 18 votes against the bill from Republican members. Markey voted with the Democratic Party for the bill.^[129] Immigration[edit] Morton Memos Prohibition[edit] Markey voted against House Amendment 136 - Prohibits the Enforcement of the Immigration Executive Order. The amendment was adopted by the House on June 6, 2013, with a vote of 224 - 201. The purpose of the amendment as stated on the official text is to "prohibit the use of funds to finalize, implement, administer, or enforce the Morton Memos." These memos would have granted administrative amnesty to certain individuals residing in the United States without legal status.^[130] The vote largely followed party lines.^[131] Social issues[edit] Abortion[edit] Markey did not vote on HR 1797 - Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act. The resolution passed the House on June 18, 2013, with a vote of 228 - 196. The purpose of the bill was to ban abortions that would take place 20 or more weeks after fertilization.^[132] Previous congressional sessions[edit] Fiscal Cliff[edit] Markey voted for the fiscal cliff compromise bill, which made permanent most of the Bush tax cuts originally passed in 2001 and 2003 while also raising tax rates on the highest income levels. He was one of 172 Democrats who voted in favor of the bill. The bill was passed in the House by a 257-167 vote on January 1, 2013.^[133]

Key votes (click "show" to expand or "hide" to contract)

114th Congress[edit]

The first session of the 114th Congress enacted into law six out of the 2,616 introduced bills (0.2 percent). Comparatively, the 113th Congress had 1.3 percent of introduced bills enacted into law in the first session. In the second session, the 114th Congress enacted 133 out of 3,159 introduced bills (4.2 percent). Comparatively, the 113th Congress had 7.0 percent of introduced bills enacted into law in the second session.^[80]^[81] The Senate confirmed 18,117 out of 21,815 executive nominations received (83 percent). For more information pertaining to Markey's voting record in the 114th Congress, please see the below sections.^[82]

Economic and fiscal[edit]

Trade Act of 2015[edit]

See also: The Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal, 2015

On May 22, 2015, the Senate passed HR 1314, which was used as a legislative vehicle for trade legislation with the titles "Trade Act of 2015" and the "Bipartisan Congressional Trade Priorities and Accountability Act of 2015," by a vote of 62-37. The bill proposed giving the president trade promotion authority (TPA). TPA, also known as fast track authority, allows the president to negotiate trade deals that cannot be amended by Congress. Congress casts a simple up or down vote on a trade agreement, and the legislation only requires a simple majority for approval. The bill also included a statement of trade priorities and provisions for trade adjustment assistance. Markey voted with 30 other Democratic senators against the bill.^[83]^[84]
Trade promotion authority
On June 24, 2015, by a vote of 60-38, the Senate approved trade promotion authority (TPA) as part of HR 2146 - Defending Public Safety Employees' Retirement Act. Markey was one of 31 Democrats to vote against the bill. After, Senate Republican leadership honored a pledge to support trade adjustment assistance (TAA) by passing the measure as part of HR 1295 - Trade Preferences Extension Act of 2015 by voice vote. The House passed HR 1295 the following day, on June 25, 2015, and both TPA and TAA were signed into law on June 29, 2015.^[85]^[86]^[87]

2016 Budget proposal[edit]

On May 5, 2015, the Senate voted to approve SConRes11, a congressional budget proposal for fiscal year 2016, by a vote of 51-48. The non-binding resolution will be used to create 12 appropriations bills to fund the government before funding runs out on October 1, 2015. The vote marked the first time since 2009 that Congress approved a joint budget resolution. All 44 Democrats, including Markey, voted against the resolution.^[88]^[89]^[90]

Defense spending authorization[edit]

On November 10, 2015, the Senate passed S 1356 - the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016 by a vote of 91-3. The second version of the $607 billion national defense bill included "$5 billion in cuts to match what was approved in the budget" and language preventing the closure of the Guantanamo Bay military prison.^[91]^[92] Markey voted with 41 Democrats, 48 Republicans and one independent in favor of the bill.^[93] On November 5, 2015, the House passed the bill by a vote of 370-58, and President Barack Obama signed it into law on November 25, 2015.^[94]

On June 18, 2015, the Senate passed HR 1735 - National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016 by a vote of 71-25. The bill "authorizes FY2016 appropriations and sets forth policies for Department of Defense (DOD) programs and activities, including military personnel strengths. It does not provide budget authority, which is provided in subsequent appropriations legislation." Markey voted with 21 Democrats, two Republicans and one Independent against the bill.^[95] The House passed the bill on May 15, 2015.^[96] President Barack Obama vetoed the bill on October 22, 2015.^[97]

2015 budget[edit]

On October 30, 2015, the Senate passed HR 1314 - Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015 by a vote of 64-35. The bill increased military and domestic spending levels and suspended the debt ceiling until March 2017.^[98] Markey voted with 43 Democrats, 18 Republicans and two independents in favor of the bill.^[99] It passed the House on October 28, 2015.^[100] President Barack Obama signed it into law on November 2, 2015.

Foreign Affairs[edit]

Iran nuclear deal[edit]

See also: Iran nuclear agreement, 2015

On May 7, 2015, the Senate voted to approve HR 1191 - A bill to provide for congressional review and oversight of agreements relating to Iran's nuclear program, and for other purposes, by a vote of 98-1. The bill required President Barack Obama to submit the details of the nuclear deal with Iran for congressional review. Congress had 60 days to review the deal and vote to approve, disapprove or take no action on the deal. During the review period, sanctions on Iran could not be lifted. All 43 Democratic senators who voted, including Markey, approved the bill.^[101]^[102]

Hire More Heroes Act of 2015
On September 10, 2015, the Senate voted to filibuster the measure to disapprove of the Iran nuclear deal by a vote of 58-42.^[103] Sixty votes were needed to proceed to HJ Res 61 - the Hire More Heroes Act of 2015, the legislative vehicle the Senate was expected to use to disapprove of the Iran nuclear deal. Markey voted with 39 Democrats and two Independents against proceeding to the measure of disapproval.^[104]

Hire More Heroes Act of 2015 follow up votes
On September 15, 2015, the Senate voted for a second time to filibuster the measure to disapprove of the Iran nuclear deal by a vote of 56-42.^[105] Sixty votes were needed to proceed to HJ Res 61 - the Hire More Heroes Act of 2015, the legislative vehicle the Senate was expected to use to disapprove of the Iran nuclear deal. Markey voted with 39 Democrats and two Independents against proceeding to the measure of disapproval.^[106] The legislation was voted on for a third time on September 17, and it failed for a third time by a vote of 56-42.^[107]

Hire More Heroes Act of 2015 fourth vote
On September 17, 2015, the Senate voted to filibuster a vote on S.Amdt.2656 to S.Amdt.2640 by a vote of 53-45. The amendment proposed prohibiting "the President from waiving, suspending, reducing, providing relief from, or otherwise limiting the application of sanctions pursuant to an agreement related to the nuclear program of Iran."^[108] Markey voted with 42 Democrats and two Independents against proceeding to the amendment.^[109]

Domestic[edit]

USA FREEDOM Act of 2015[edit]

On June 2, 2015, the Senate passed HR 2048 - the Uniting and Strengthening America by Fulfilling Rights and Ensuring Effective Discipline Over Monitoring Act of 2015 or the USA FREEDOM Act of 2015 by a vote of 67-32. The legislation revised HR 3199 - the USA PATRIOT Improvement and Reauthorization Act of 2005 by terminating the bulk collection of metadata under Sec. 215 of the act, requiring increased reporting from the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court and requiring the use of "a specific selection term as the basis for national security letters that request information from wire or electronic communication service providers, financial institutions, or consumer reporting agencies." Markey voted with 42 Democrats, 23 Republicans and one Independent to approve the legislation. It became law on June 2, 2015.^[110]^[111]

Cyber security[edit]

On October 27, 2015, the Senate passed S 754 - the Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act of 2015 by a vote of 74-21.^[112] The bill proposed procedures that would allow federal agencies and private entities to share information about cyber threats. Markey voted with 13 Democrats, six Republicans and one independent against the bill.^[113]

Immigration[edit]

On October 20, 2015, the Senate voted against proceeding to a vote on S 2146 - the Stop Sanctuary Policies and Protect Americans Act by a vote of 54-45. The bill proposed withholding federal funding from "sanctuary jurisdictions" that violate the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 and other federal immigration laws. In addition, the bill proposed increasing "penalties for individuals who illegally reenter the United States after being removed" and providing "liability protection for State and local law enforcement who cooperate with Federal law enforcement."^[114] Markey voted with 41 Democrats, one Republican and two Independents against proceeding to the bill.^[115]

113th Congress[edit]

The second session of the 113th Congress enacted into law 224 out of the 3215 introduced bills (7 percent). Comparatively, the 112th Congress had 4.2 percent of introduced bills enacted into law in the second session.^[116] The Senate confirmed 13,949 out of 18,323 executive nominations received (76.1 percent). For more information pertaining to Markey's voting record in the 113th Congress, please see the below sections.^[117]

Note: Markey won special election to the Senate seat in June 2013. His record reflects both his votes in the House and the Senate for the 113th Congress.

National security[edit]

Committee vote on Syria[edit]

See also: United States involvement in Syria

On September 4, 2013, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee narrowly approved an authorization for President Obama to use limited force against Syria.^[118]^[119]

The vote came after a three-hour briefing with top Obama administration officials, including Secretary of State John Kerry and James Clapper, the director of national intelligence.^[120]

Of the nine Democratic members and eight Republican members that make up the committee, seven Democrats members and three Republicans voted in favor, while five Republicans and two Democrats opposed the authorization.^[120] Markey was the only member of the committee to dodge the yes-no vote by voting "present."^[121]^[122]

Economy[edit]

Farm bill[edit]

On February 4, 2014, the Democratic controlled Senate approved the Federal Agriculture Reform and Risk Management Act of 2013, H.R. 2642, also known as the Farm Bill.^[123] It passed the Senate with a vote of 68-32. The nearly 1,000-page bill reformed and continued various programs of the Department of Agriculture through 2018. The $1 trillion bill expanded crop insurance for farmers by $7 billion over the next decade and created new subsidies for rice and peanut growers that would kick in when prices drop.^[124] However, cuts to the food stamp program cut an average of $90 per month for 1.7 million people in 15 states.^[124] Markey was one of nine Democratic senators who voted against the bill.

2014 Budget[edit]

On January 16, 2014, the Democratic-controlled Senate approved H.R. 3547, a $1.1 trillion spending bill to fund the government through September 30, 2014.^[125]^[126] The Senate voted 72-26 for the 1,582 page bill, with 17 Republicans and 55 Democrats voting in favor of the bill.^[126] The omnibus package included 12 annual spending bills to fund federal operations.^[127] It included a 1 percent increase in the paychecks of federal workers and military personnel, a $1 billion increase in Head Start funding for early childhood education, reduced funding to the Internal Revenue Service and the Environmental Protection Agency and left the Affordable Care Act without any drastic cuts. Markey voted with the Democratic Party in favor of the bill.^[125]^[126]

Government shutdown[edit]

See also: United States budget debate, 2013

During the shutdown in October 2013, the Senate rejected, down party lines, every House-originated bill that stripped the budget of funding for the Affordable Care Act. A deal was reached late on October 16, 2013, just hours before the debt ceiling deadline. The bill to reopen the government, H.R. 2775, lifted the $16.7 trillion debt limit and funded the government through January 15, 2014. Federal employees also received retroactive pay for the shutdown period. The only concession made by Senate Democrats was to require income verification for Obamacare subsidies.^[128] The final vote on H.R. 2775 was 81-18, with all 18 votes against the bill from Republican members. Markey voted with the Democratic Party for the bill.^[129]

Immigration[edit]

Morton Memos Prohibition[edit]

Markey voted against House Amendment 136 - Prohibits the Enforcement of the Immigration Executive Order. The amendment was adopted by the House on June 6, 2013, with a vote of 224 - 201. The purpose of the amendment as stated on the official text is to "prohibit the use of funds to finalize, implement, administer, or enforce the Morton Memos." These memos would have granted administrative amnesty to certain individuals residing in the United States without legal status.^[130] The vote largely followed party lines.^[131]

Social issues[edit]

Abortion[edit]

Markey did not vote on HR 1797 - Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act. The resolution passed the House on June 18, 2013, with a vote of 228 - 196. The purpose of the bill was to ban abortions that would take place 20 or more weeks after fertilization.^[132]

Previous congressional sessions[edit]

Fiscal Cliff[edit]

Markey voted for the fiscal cliff compromise bill, which made permanent most of the Bush tax cuts originally passed in 2001 and 2003 while also raising tax rates on the highest income levels. He was one of 172 Democrats who voted in favor of the bill. The bill was passed in the House by a 257-167 vote on January 1, 2013.^[133]

Presidential preference[edit]

2020[edit]

See also: Presidential election in Massachusetts, 2020 and Democratic National Convention, 2020

Markey endorsed Elizabeth Warren (D) in the 2020 presidential election.^[134]

2016[edit]

See also: Presidential election in Massachusetts, 2016 and Democratic National Convention, 2016

Markey endorsed Hillary Clinton (D) in the 2016 presidential election.^[135]

Campaign donors[edit]

Comprehensive donor history[edit]

Note: The finance data shown here comes from the disclosures required of candidates and parties. Depending on the election or state, this may represent only a portion of all the funds spent on their behalf. Satellite spending groups may or may not have expended funds related to the candidate or politician on whose page you are reading this disclaimer. Campaign finance data from elections may be incomplete. For elections to federal offices, complete data can be found at the FEC website. Click here for more on federal campaign finance law and here for more on state campaign finance law.

Edward J. Markey campaign contribution history
Year	Office	Result	Contributions
2014	U.S. Senate (Massachusetts)	✔	$18,624,052
2012	U.S. House (Massachusetts, District 5)	✔	$1,091,666
2010	U.S. House (Massachusetts, District 7)	✔	$1,535,340
2008	U.S. House (Massachusetts, District 7)	✔	$1,454,661
2006	U.S. House (Massachusetts, District 7)	✔	$942,520
2004	U.S. House (Massachusetts, District 7)	✔	$2,840,650
2002	U.S. House (Massachusetts, District 7)	✔	$688,471
2000	U.S. House (Massachusetts, District 7)	✔	$591,089
Grand total raised			$27,768,449
Source: Follow the Money

2014[edit]

Markey won re-election to the U.S. Senate in 2014. During that election cycle, Markey's campaign committee raised a total of $18,624,052 and spent $17,857,729.^[136] This is more than the average $10.6 million spent by Senate winners in 2014.^[137]

Cost per vote[edit]

Markey spent $13.84 per general election vote received in 2014.

U.S. Senate, Massachusetts, 2014 - Edward Markey Campaign Contributions
Total Raised	$18,624,052
Total Spent	$17,857,729
Total Raised by Election Runner-up	$120,258
Total Spent by Election Runner-up	$118,532
Top contributors to Edward Markey's campaign committee
League of Conservation Voters	$351,511
Mintz, Levin et al	$126,550
Harvard University	$99,300
Granite Telecommunications	$84,500
Wilmerhale Llp	$81,700
Top 5 industries that contributed to campaign committee
Lawyers/Law Firms	$1,954,911
Securities & Investment	$1,012,026
Real Estate	$811,650
TV/Movies/Music	$680,400
Environment	$546,271

To view the breakdown of campaign funding by type click [show] to expand the section.
Breakdown of the source of Markey's campaign funds before the 2014 election.

2013[edit]

Top recipients of lobbyist contributions[edit]

On a list of Top 10 Recipients of Contributions from Lobbyists in 2013 from OpenSecrets.org, Markey ranked 1st on the list with $183,340 in lobbyist contributions.^[138]

U.S. Senate Special Election[edit]

U.S. Rep. Markey raised about $4.8 million from the time he announced he would be running in the special election race to April 2013.^[139] Markey's Democratic rival, fellow U.S. Rep. Stephen Lynch reported raising approximately $1.5 million since entering the race in late January, adding to the $745,000 left over from his last House race.^[139]

After beginning with more than $3 million in his congressional campaign account at the start of the campaign, Markey had a total of $7.8 million on hand in early April. After spending about $3.2 million, his account was left with about $4.6 million as of April 10, 2013.^[139] According to reports, more than 53 percent of the money raised by Markey came from outside of the state, with only approximately 47 percent coming from Massachusetts donors. According to Markey's campaign, approximately 83 percent of the more than 18,000 individuals who contributed to his campaign gave $100 or less.^[139]

Lynch reported spending more than $1.7 million through April 10 and had more than $514,000 left in his account for the final stretch.^[139] According to his campaign, about 93 percent of the approximately 3,300 individual donors live in Massachusetts and approximately 45 percent of those who donated to his campaign gave $100 or less.^[139]

2012[edit]

Markey won election to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2012. During that election cycle, Markey's campaign committee raised a total of $1,091,666 and spent $1,110,492.^[140]

Cost per vote[edit]

Markey spent $4.31 per vote received in 2012.

U.S. House, Massachusetts District 5, 2012 - Edward Markey Campaign Contributions
Total Raised	$1,091,666
Total Spent	$1,110,492
Total Raised by Election Runner-up	$15,560
Total Spent by Election Runner-up	$15,628
Top contributors to Edward Markey's campaign committee
Fresenius Medical Care	$20,200
WilmerHale Llp	$20,000
DLA Piper	$16,500
Interpublic Group	$12,800
Enernoc Inc	$11,750
Top 5 industries that contributed to campaign committee
Lawyers/Law Firms	$114,164
Lobbyists	$79,950
TV/Movies/Music	$49,000
Real Estate	$37,000
Telephone Utilities	$33,120

To view the breakdown of campaign funding by type click [show] to expand the section.
Breakdown of the source of Markey's campaign funds before the 2012 election.

2010[edit]

Markey won re-election to the U.S. House in 2010. During that re-election cycle, Markey's campaign committee raised a total of $1,535,340 and spent $1,291,210.^[141]

U.S. House, Massachusetts District 7, 2010 - Edward Markey Campaign Contributions
Total Raised	$1,535,340
Total Spent	$1,291,210
Total Raised by General Election Opponent	$45,403
Total Spent by General Election Opponent	$41,307
Top contributors to Edward Markey's campaign committee
Enernoc Inc	$24,900
Thermo Fisher Scientific	$18,100
Feeley & Driscoll	$15,500
DLA Piper	$14,900
Holcim Ltd	$14,500
Top 5 industries that contributed to campaign committee
Electric Utilities	$146,900
Lawyers/Law Firms	$121,150
Lobbyists	$113,754
TV/Movies/Music	$65,750
Telecom Services & Equipment	$59,750

To view the breakdown of campaign funding by type click [show] to expand the section.
Breakdown of the source of Markey's campaign funds before the 2010 election.

Personal Gain Index[edit]

See also: Personal Gain Index (U.S. Congress)

The Personal Gain Index (U.S. Congress) is a two-part measurement that illustrates the extent to which members of the U.S. Congress have prospered during their tenure as public servants.
It consists of two different metrics:

PGI: Change in net worth[edit]

See also: Changes in Net Worth of U.S. Senators and Representatives (Personal Gain Index) and Net worth of United States Senators and Representatives

Based on congressional financial disclosure forms and calculations made available by OpenSecrets.org, Markey's net worth as of 2012 was estimated between $883,025 and $2,221,000. That averages to $1,552,012.50, which is lower than the average net worth of Democratic senators in 2012 of $13,566,333.^[142] Between 2004 and 2012, Markey's calculated net worth^[143] increased by an average of 5 percent per year. Between 2004 and 2012, the average annual percentage increase for a member of Congress was 15.4 percent.^[144]

Ed Markey Yearly Net Worth
Year	Average Net Worth
2004	$1,096,325
2012	$1,552,012
Growth from 2004 to 2012:	42%
Average annual growth:	5%^[145]
Comparatively, the American citizen experienced a median yearly decline in net worth of -0.94%.^[146]

The data used to calculate changes in net worth may include changes resulting from assets gained through marriage, inheritance, changes in family estates and/or trusts, changes in family business ownership, and many other variables unrelated to a member's behavior in Congress.

PGI: Donation Concentration Metric[edit]

See also: The Donation Concentration Metric (U.S. Congress Personal Gain Index)

Filings required by the Federal Election Commission report on the industries that give to each candidate. Using campaign filings and information calculated by OpenSecrets.org, Ballotpedia calculated the percentage of donations by industry received by each incumbent over the course of his or her career (or 1989 and later, if elected prior to 1988). Markey received the most donations from individuals and PACs employed by the Lawyers/Law Firms industry.

From 1989-2014, 30.06 percent of Markey's career contributions came from the top five industries as listed below.^[147]

Edward Markey Campaign Contributions
Total Raised	$29,645,252
Total Spent	$26,111,014
Top five industries that contributed to campaign committee
Lawyers/Law Firms	$3,280,944
Securities & Investment	$1,754,156
TV/Movies/Music	$1,584,698
Lobbyists	$1,227,108
Real Estate	$1,063,234
% total in top industry	11.07%
% total in top two industries	16.98%
% total in top five industries	30.06%

Analysis[edit]

Ideology and leadership[edit]

See also: GovTrack's Political Spectrum & Legislative Leadership ranking

Based on an analysis of bill sponsorship by GovTrack, Markey was a moderate Democratic leader as of July 22, 2014. This was the same rating Markey received in June 2013.^[148]

Like-minded colleagues[edit]

The website OpenCongress tracks the voting records of each member to determine with whom he or she votes most and least often. The results include a member from each party.^[149]

Markey most often votes with:

Markey least often votes with:

Lifetime voting record[edit]

See also: Lifetime voting records of United States Senators and Representatives

According to the website GovTrack, Markey missed 19 of 763 roll call votes from July 2013 to September 2015. This amounts to 2.5 percent, which is worse than the median of 1.6 percent among current senators as of September 2015.^[150]

Congressional staff salaries[edit]

See also: Staff salaries of United States Senators and Representatives

The website Legistorm compiles staff salary information for members of Congress. Markey paid his congressional staff a total of $1,229,246 in 2011. He ranked 4th on the list of the highest paid Democratic representative staff salaries and ranked 4th overall of the highest paid representative staff salaries in 2011. Overall, Massachusetts ranked 2nd in average salary for representative staff. The average U.S. House of Representatives congressional staff was paid $954,912.20 in fiscal year 2011.^[151]

National Journal vote ratings[edit]

See also: National Journal vote ratings

Each year, National Journal publishes an analysis of how liberally or conservatively each member of Congress voted, as compared to other members, in the previous year. More information about the analysis process can be found on the vote ratings page.

2013[edit]

Markey was not ranked in 2013.^[152]

2012[edit]

According to the data released in 2013, Markey ranked 15th in the liberal rankings in 2012.^[153]

2011[edit]

According to the data released in 2012, Ed Markey ranked 41st in the liberal rankings in 2011.^[154]

Voting with party[edit]

The website OpenCongress tracks how often members of Congress vote with the majority of the chamber caucus.

2014[edit]

Markey voted with the Democratic Party 90.3 percent of the time, which ranked 41st among the 45 Senate Democratic members as of July 2014.^[155]

2013[edit]

Markey voted with the Democratic Party 90.7 percent of the time, which ranked 154 among the 201 House Democratic members as of June 2013.^[156]

Notable endorsements[edit]

The following table shows a list of notable endorsements made by this individual or organization. The list includes presidential, congressional, gubernatorial, state legislative, and other notable candidates. If you are aware of endorsements that should be included, please email us.

Notable endorsements by Edward J. Markey
Endorsee	Party	Race
Elizabeth Warren ^source	Democratic Party	President of the United States (2020)
Hillary Clinton ^source	Democratic Party	President of the United States (2016)

Personal[edit]

Note: Please contact us if the personal information below requires an update.
Markey is married to Dr. Susan Blumenthal.^[157]

External links[edit]

Search Google News for this topic

Candidate

U.S. Senate Massachusetts

Officeholder

U.S. Senate Massachusetts

Footnotes[edit]

Political offices
Preceded by Mo Cowan (D)	United States Senate - Massachusetts 2013-Present	Succeeded by '
Preceded by Niki Tsongas	U.S. House of Representatives - Massachusetts, 5th District 2013-2013	Succeeded by Katherine Clark (D)
Preceded by Torbert H. Macdonald	U.S. House of Representatives - Massachusetts, 7th District 1976-2013	Succeeded by Michael Capuano
Preceded by '	Massachusetts House of Representatives 1973-1976	Succeeded by '

[show]

Massachusetts' current delegation to the United States Congress

Senators

Edward Markey (D)

Elizabeth Warren (D)

Representatives

District 1

Richard Neal (D)

District 2

Jim McGovern (D)

District 3

Lori Trahan (D)

District 4

Jake Auchincloss (D)

District 5

Katherine Clark (D)

District 6

Seth Moulton (D)

District 7

Ayanna Pressley (D)

District 8

Stephen Lynch (D)

District 9

Bill Keating (D)

Democratic Party (11)

	v • e State of Massachusetts Boston (capital)
Elections	What's on my ballot? \| Elections in 2021 \| How to vote \| How to run for office \| Ballot measures
Government	Who represents me? \| U.S. President \| U.S. Congress \| Federal courts \| State executives \| State legislature \| State and local courts \| Counties \| Cities \| School districts \| Public policy

Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 | Original source: https://ballotpedia.org/Edward_Markey
Status: cached on November 18 2021 15:45:53

Edward Markey

Contents

Biography[edit]

Career[edit]

Committee assignments[edit]

U.S. Senate[edit]

2021-2022

2019-2020

2017-2018[edit]

2015-2016[edit]

2013-2014[edit]

U.S. House[edit]

2013[edit]

2011-2012[edit]

Elections[edit]

2020[edit]

General election for U.S. Senate Massachusetts

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Democratic primary for U.S. Senate Massachusetts

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Republican primary for U.S. Senate Massachusetts

Libertarian primary election[edit]

Candidate profile[edit]

2014[edit]

2013[edit]

Endorsements[edit]

2012[edit]

Full history[edit]

Campaign themes[edit]

2020[edit]

Ballotpedia survey responses

2012[edit]

Key votes[edit]

Key votes: 116th Congress, 2019-2020[edit]

Key votes: 115th Congress, 2017-2018[edit]

Key votes: Previous sessions of Congress[edit]

114th Congress[edit]

Economic and fiscal[edit]

Trade Act of 2015[edit]

2016 Budget proposal[edit]

Defense spending authorization[edit]

2015 budget[edit]

Foreign Affairs[edit]

Iran nuclear deal[edit]

Domestic[edit]

USA FREEDOM Act of 2015[edit]

Cyber security[edit]

Immigration[edit]

113th Congress[edit]

National security[edit]

Committee vote on Syria[edit]

Economy[edit]

Farm bill[edit]

2014 Budget[edit]

Government shutdown[edit]

Immigration[edit]

Morton Memos Prohibition[edit]

Social issues[edit]

Abortion[edit]

Previous congressional sessions[edit]

Fiscal Cliff[edit]

Presidential preference[edit]

2020[edit]

2016[edit]

Campaign donors[edit]

Comprehensive donor history[edit]

2014[edit]

Cost per vote[edit]

2013[edit]

Top recipients of lobbyist contributions[edit]

U.S. Senate Special Election[edit]

2012[edit]

Cost per vote[edit]

2010[edit]

Personal Gain Index[edit]

PGI: Change in net worth[edit]

PGI: Donation Concentration Metric[edit]

Analysis[edit]

Ideology and leadership[edit]

Like-minded colleagues[edit]