Brown Questions Markey's Malden Residency

In a radio interview Wednesday morning, U.S. Sen. Scott Brown (R-MA) jabbed at Democratic Congressman Edward Markey about his residency in Malden, according to a Boston.com report.

Brown questioned if Markey, who represents Melrose, still lives in Massachusetts and also told WTKK-FM he often sees members of the Bay State congressional delegation on plane trips home but said "I have never seen Ed on the airplane—ever," according to the report.

Markey spokeswoman Giselle Barry responded in an email to Patch Wednesday, saying, "Scott Brown has not yet announced that he is running for Senate, but he is already launching false, personal attacks from the sidelines. Ed Markey lives in Malden, and has lived there his entire life. He and his wife own their home in Malden. He is proud to come from and represent the values of the people of Malden. This campaign should be about what matters most to the people of Massachusetts: jobs, education, health care and the environment."

Malden Mayor Gary Christenson added, "Ed Markey is very much a presence in Malden as evidenced by his leadership in securing funds for our downtown renovation and helping to bring a $51 Million baseball park to our City. When he’s not racking up legislative accomplishments, Ed can be found at the YMCA shooting hoops, at our fabulous restaurants on Saturday nights, or at community events throughout the year.  He has long been a true champion for the City of Malden and as Mayor, I am proud that a national leader of Ed Markey's stature calls Malden home."

The salvo from Brown could be a preview of a possible showdown with Markey over the Senate seat expected to be vacated by John Kerry if he is confirmed as the next U.S. Secretary of State. Boston.com reports Brown has "hinted" he could run for the seat while Markey said he would run if Kerry's confirmation is successful.