Voters head to polls for Massachusetts state primary

SPRINGFIELD, MA (WGGB/WSHM) -- More than 550,000 Massachusetts voters have already participated in the state primary through mail-in and early in-person voting, according to the latest data.

More than 460,000 Democratic ballots have been cast, compared with just over 90,000 Republican ballots.

Rowe, Orleans, and Rockport are leading the state in turnout. Each town is pacing above the 10% state average.

One voter is not afraid to say what she wants for her town.

“I’d like to bring some resources to the western part of the state,” said Kathleen Van Winkle. “That’s really big on my mind. Everybody is kind of struggling, so people who have our area in mind is front of mind for me.”

Another said he wants change.

“I hope we get a Republican governor in the state,” said John Sujat. “Probably better in reality to please both sides, Democrats and Republicans, as opposed to a staunch Republican.”

The highest-stakes contest in the primary is the Democratic U.S. Senate race between incumbent Sen. Ed Markey and Rep. Seth Moulton.

Moulton has challenged Markey’s tenure and age, arguing that the state needs a new generation of leadership.

“If you think we need a new generation of leadership to take on a new generation of challenges and opportunities, then that’s why I’m running,” Moulton said.

Markey says his progressive record and experience are what Massachusetts needs. He said Massachusetts wants a progressive in the U.S. Senate who supports Medicare for All.

“Massachusetts wants a progressive on the floor of the United States Senate next year. Someone who supports Medicare for All,” Markey said.

The winner of the Democratic primary will face Republican nominee John Deaton in the November general election.

Polls opened at 7 a.m. across the state and close at 8 p.m. Officials said they will not have in-person turnout numbers until results begin coming in on election night.