AMHERST — Amherst Town Councilor Evan Ross today announced his endorsement of Ed Markey for re-election to the United States Senate.

Ross’ support comes as several other officials in the region also announced their support, including: Northampton City Council President Gina Louise Sciarra and City Councilors William Dwight, Karen Foster, Rachel Maiore, John Thorpe; Agawam Mayor William Sapelli; and Easthampton City Councilor At-Large Owen Zaret and District #3 Councilor Tom Peake.

“Last fall Amherst adopted ambitious climate action goals, committing the Town to carbon neutrality by 2050. But to succeed locally, we need leadership on climate in Washington, D.C. And no one has been a stronger leader on climate than Senator Markey,” said Ross. “From the Waxman-Markey bill to the Green New Deal, Markey has championed climate action on Capitol Hill. That’s why I’m proud to support him for re-election. Because the fight against climate change is far from over, and we really need him in the ring.”

Evan Ross has long been a champion against climate change; in the past year alone, Ross helped the Amherst Town Council move forward on plans to increase clean energy and protect the Fort River.

“If we want to ensure the future of our planet, it’s going to take a concerted effort at every level of government,” said Senator Markey. “That is why it is critical to have environmental advocates like Evan Ross working on the local level to fight climate change. Evan has worked tirelessly for the town of Amherst, and I am proud to have his endorsement in this race.”

In his time as Amherst Councilor, Evan has also focused on improving the availability and quality of housing within the area. Amid the coronavirus pandemic, he has worked to ensure Amherst residents can stay in their homes in a time when many are struggling to make rent.

In November, Senator Markey announced a $565,000 grant from the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund for the Cooperative Fund of New England in Amherst to provide financial services and support for small businesses and working families.

Evan Ross represents District 4 on Amherst’s inaugural Council, where he serves on the Outreach, Communications, & Appointments and Governance, Organization & Legislation Committees.

Senator Markey has served in the United States Senate since winning the special election in 2013 and has amassed a deep record on environmental, climate, gun safety, and consumer protection issues. He co-authored the Green New Deal, and his leadership has led to legislation to address the humanitarian crisis on the southern border, protect LGBTQ+ rights, and ensure that Donald Trump cannot launch a nuclear first strike without Congressional approval. Raised in Malden, Ed Markey has always stood up for the priorities of Massachusetts.

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