By Samantha Genzer
Boston University News Service
Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren holds a significant lead in her re-election bid, running on her progressive record and appealing to solidly Democratic voters.
Warren has a 22.2% advantage in eight polls over her Republican challenger, John Deaton, as she campaigns for a third term on promises of affordable housing, economic reform and federal protections for reproductive rights.
On the other hand, Deaton emphasizes reducing government debt, alleviating poverty through economic opportunity and restricting late-term abortions.
“I may not be the only candidate who is pro-choice, but if you’re looking for a United States senator who can broaden the abortion rights coalition and try to convince not just elected leaders but voters, to support pro-choice initiatives, then I’m asking for your vote,” Deaton said at the Oct. 15 Massachusetts senate debate.
Due to Massachusetts being predominantly democratic, this race is not as competitive as senate races in other states, with Warren taking a clear lead. Her campaign builds on a strong record of progressive initiatives, particularly around issues that resonate deeply with Massachusetts voters.
Warren has made housing affordability a cornerstone of her platform, recognizing the rising cost of living and housing shortages in cities like Boston.
“Many Massachusetts voters, especially us in Boston, will benefit from more housing developments,” said Christine Slaughter, a Boston University Assistant Professor of Political Science.
Along with housing, Warren has also emphasized her support for codifying Roe v. Wade into federal law.
“That is top of mind for many women, including women of color in the state,” Slaughter said.
Deaton has also mentioned he wants to codify Roe v. Wade into federal law, calling himself the “pro-choice candidate” in the senate debate.
In her border policy agenda, Warren advocates for changes to immigration and border policies. She emphasizes empowering local border communities, opposing the construction of the Trump-era border wall and pledging to establish a fair immigration system.
While Deaton tried to paint Warren as “extreme” for her border policies during the Oct. 15 senate debate, Warren has emphasized the importance of comprehensive reform rather than isolationist policies.
Boston City Councilor Edward Flynn voiced his support for Warren’s re-election, particularly regarding her work on behalf of veterans and LGBTQ+ communities.
Flynn has worked with Warren on the PACT Act to expand veterans’ healthcare, the Deborah Sampson Act to improve women veterans’ healthcare and the Respect for Marriage Act.
“I have a positive personal and working relationship with Senator Warren,” Flynn wrote in a statement. “I endorse her for re-election.”
Along with Flynn, the Massachusetts Nurses Association and The Boston Globe have endorsed Warren for re-election.
“Senator Warren has long been a strong advocate for safe patient care, healthcare violence prevention and the preservation of essential healthcare services,” said Katie Murphy, President of the MNA. “We join the senator in her efforts to rein in corporate power, rebuild the middle class, and support Massachusetts families.”
“Senator Warren is the first woman elected to the Senate from Massachusetts,” Slaughter said. “She’s been an advocate through her policy priorities for women and consumers.”
