In a debate held Tuesday in Allston, Massachusetts, Republican attorney John Deaton and Democratic U.S. Representative Seth Moulton faced off in a contest for a U.S. Senate seat, notably without the participation of incumbent Senator Ed Markey. The 79-year-old senator, who is seeking re-election, was invited but declined to join the event, leaving the two challengers to debate directly.

The hour-long debate, moderated by WBZ’s Jon Keller, focused on a range of issues including immigration, congressional aid to Israel, environmental policies, and broader questions about leadership and experience. Deaton sharply criticized Markey for his absence, calling the senator a "coward" and underscoring his own independence by rejecting party loyalty and criticizing both major parties. He also took aim at Moulton, accusing him of being too similar to Markey, pointing to what he described as flip-flopping on policy issues and a lack of significant legislative results during Moulton’s six terms in the House.

Moulton sought to differentiate himself, highlighting his military service and citing achievements such as sponsoring the 988 mental health hotline. He presented himself as part of a new generation of leadership, emphasizing pragmatism and legislative effectiveness. Though he defended Senator Markey’s record at times, Moulton also criticized some of Markey’s past votes, including support for the 2002 Authorization for Use of Military Force in Iraq and confirmations of former President Donald Trump’s nominees. He attempted to link Deaton to the Trump agenda, a connection Deaton denied, distancing himself from the former president’s policies.

Both candidates displayed willingness to break from their party’s orthodoxy on certain issues, stressing independence and the need for change. Immigration was among the key topics examined, with each outlining their vision for how to address challenges in that area.

The absence of Senator Markey was a recurring theme throughout the debate, influencing the tone and content as Deaton and Moulton positioned themselves as alternatives either to Markey’s incumbency or to each other in the upcoming Democratic primary. With voters still months away from the primary election, this debate provided an early glimpse into the dynamics shaping the Massachusetts Senate race.