SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – Senator Ed Markey has put western Massachusetts high on his campaign itinerary this weekend.

The Senator received a heroes welcome Saturday evening at the Center for Eco-Technology in Springfield.

Senator Markey had requested meeting the staff at the environmentally minded company that endorses climate change solutions. He told 22News the impact of climate change grows more threatening by the day.

“The environment is going to be a very big part of my effort to get re-elected,” Markey said. “We’re going to push it right into the presidential race because Donald Trump is the denier in chief.”

The Massachusetts senator said he intends to take the lead next year on the senate floor implementing the green new deal.

After leaving Springfield, Markey met with Hampshire county supporters in Williamsburg and on Sunday he’ll take part in Pittsfield’s Four Freedoms March & Rally.