WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama has congratulated Edward Markey on his victory in the special election to succeed John Kerry the U.S. Senate.

In a statement issued by the White House, Obama said Markey has distinguished himself as a leader on a number of key issues, including carbon pollution, gun violence and job growth.

The president said Markey has earned a reputation as an ‘‘effective, creative legislator’’ who is willing to reach across party lines to find compromise.

Obama campaigned for Markey in Boston earlier this month.

The president also thanked interim U.S. Senator William ‘‘Mo’’ Cowan for his work over the last five months, and Kerry for his long service in the Senate and now as U.S. Secretary of State.