Local 589’s endorsed candidate for U.S. Senate Ed Markey (center) with the Executive Board of the Boston Carmen’s Union.

Democrat Edward J. Markey, a 37-year veteran of the US House, cruised to victory Tuesday over Republican newcomer Gabriel E. Gomez in the US Senate special election.

“I am a son of Malden, but I do not go to occupy a seat in the Senate,” Markey told the crowd at the Boston Park Plaza Hotel after his win. “I go there to stand for you, to speak for you, to seek change that lifts up your families and your future.”

The final results showed Markey beating Gomez about 55 percent to 45 percent. Markey, 66, now heads to the Senate to finish the final 17 months of John F. Kerry’s term and protect the Democrats’ grip on the chamber, where the party holds a 54 to 46 majority.

John Lee, President of the Boston Carmen’s Union, Local 589, said, “It’s great day for working families and public transit in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Congratulations to Senator-Elect Ed Markey and we look forward to working with him in the senate on transportation issues.”