In November, 2025, after Senate Democrats surrendered their advantage in the budget battle, Indivisible launched its largest ever initiative to primary Democrats, especially in safe districts.
The Incumbent Advantage in Massachusetts
Incumbents have a huge advantage in Massachusetts, and one of the reasons is an arcane requirement for each democratic candidate on the primary ballot to win 15% of the Democratic Convention endorsement. If they don’t, they are not allowed on the ballot. So about 4,000 people choose who will be on the primary ballot before registered voters can weigh in. In the past, status quo delegates have outnumbered progressive delegates in Massachusetts.
What will Primarying the Incumbent do?
Even if defeating the incumbent is unlikely, primarying them sends an important message that we are not happy with the job they are doing. It forces them to talk about, and defend, their record. It can move their policies in a different direction.
How should I choose a Primary Candidate to Support?
Primary candidates are very accessible. Read their websites, and ask them questions. Attend a “meet and greet.” Evaluate where they get their funding- do they take AIPAC or Corporate money?
