Congressman Seth Moulton Is Running for President [OPINION]

Massachusetts Democrat Seth Moulton is the latest in his party to jump into the slog to become the president. Moulton brings something unique to the table.

Seth Moulton served as a platoon leader in Iraq, and he did so not once but on four tours of duty. He was one of the first Marines to enter Bagdad in 2003. The Congressman joined the Marines after graduating from Harvard University and prior to the Muslim terrorist attacks on 9/11. He is also a graduate of the Harvard Business School and the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard.

Three degrees from Harvard and four tours in Iraq as Marine infantry officer are impressive and unique.

He also rid Massachusetts of an embarrassment when he challenged and defeated Congressman John Tierney in the Democratic Party primary a few years ago. Tierney was caught up in an organized crime gambling ring that was managed by his wife's family. Tierney's wife was convicted of participating in the crime syndicate while he was a sitting member of Congress.

Taking on a wounded Democrat in Massachusetts just isn't done. It certainly wasn't done when Rep. Gerry Studds was involved in molesting drunk kids working as summer interns in Congress. In fact, there is a federal monument to disgraced Rep. Studds and he retired with a pension on his own terms.

So I'm not sure how much of a chance Moulton has, but he's definitely got a different background and that may be enough to stand out in the crowded field.

Chris McCarthy is the host of The Chris McCarthy Show on 1420 WBSM New Bedford. He can be heard weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon. Contact him at chris.mccarthy@townsquaremedia.com and follow him on Twitter @Chris_topher_Mc. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.