BOSTON — Senator Ed Markey endorsed Mayor Michelle Wu for a second term on Monday, citing her climate initiatives and fare-free transit policies as examples of bold, forward-thinking leadership.

The announcement, made in Jamaica Plain, focused heavily on Wu’s Green New Deal for Boston and her commitment to environmental justice. “Mayor Wu is leading Boston toward a livable, green-powered future,” Markey said, echoing themes from previous endorsements by Senator Elizabeth Warren and Rep. Ayanna Pressley.

While the endorsement further solidifies Wu’s standing among national progressives, it comes at a time when many Boston residents remain concerned about the rising cost of living and the pace of housing development.

According to city data, housing approvals in 2024 dropped to their lowest level since 2011, despite growing demand and continued population pressures. Meanwhile, rental prices have steadily increased, with some neighborhoods seeing double-digit percentage hikes year over year.

Wu has also faced scrutiny over her relationship with the business community, with developers citing delays and confusion around permitting and zoning under her administration. Some have raised concerns that recent affordability mandates are slowing new construction rather than speeding it up.

On public safety, Wu has pointed to reductions in homicides and shootings, but residents and small businesses continue to raise concerns about quality-of-life issues, including theft, drug activity, and general disorder in parts of the city.

Still, Wu’s campaign is betting that her emphasis on long-term investments in climate, housing affordability, and public transit will resonate with voters. Markey’s endorsement signals continued national support for that approach—though whether local voters share that optimism remains to be seen.

With the mayoral race entering a new phase ahead of the fall ballot deadline, all eyes are now on how challengers, including nonprofit executive Josh Kraft, will position themselves in contrast to the sitting mayor.