Boston.com, Feb. 12: Gomez moves toward GOP run

Medford Democrat and state Representative Carl Sciortino on Friday, Feb. 8, launched a campaign for Congressman Ed Markey's seat. Markey, a Malden Democrat, is running for U.S. Senate.

"I am running to continue the strong progressive leadership that the families of the Fifth District have always counted on," said Sciortino in a statement. "I look forward to bringing my record of accomplishment to Washington to fight for our progressive values."

Sciortino praised Markey for his service as a congressman.

"I am proud to call Ed Markey my Congressman and I am dedicated to helping elect him as our next U.S. Senator," said Rep. Sciortino. "His record on behalf of Massachusetts families -- fighting for jobs, consumers' rights, and a healthier environment— is the kind of leadership Massachusetts needs in the Senate and it is a record I look forward to continuing in Congress."

Sciortino was first elected to the State House in 2004 at the age of 25. He is one of the state’s seven openly gay legislators. He has been an advocate for LGBT rights, a supporter of the Green Line extension to Medford and Somerville, and has worked to close corporate tax loopholes and increase the minimum wage. The Tufts University grad lives in Medford with his fiancé.

Both Sciortino and Markey were reelected to their current positions in November for new two-year terms. If Markey, the so-called frontrunner for the open US Senate seat, doesn’t advance past the primary in April, or doesn’t win the special election in June, he will remain a Congressman and no special election for his seat will be held.

The author publishes InsideMedord.com, where this story first was published. This was published Friday, Feb. 8, and updated Feb. 12.