Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-N.Y.) became the first member of the progressive "Squad" to lose a primary challenge in the 2024 election cycle. Bowman, who represents New York's 16th Congressional District, suffered a significant defeat to Westchester County Executive George Latimer, highlighting deep divisions within the Democratic Party over the Israel-Gaza conflict.
Bowman, a former public middle school principal and a second-term representative, has been an outspoken critic of Israel's actions in the ongoing war and the Biden administration's support for the country. He has accused Israeli officials of committing genocide and was an early advocate for a ceasefire. This stance drew substantial opposition from pro-Israel groups, most notably the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), which spent millions to support Latimer's campaign.
AIPAC's financial muscle played a crucial role in the race, contributing over $1.5 million to Latimer's campaign. This influx of funds made it the most expensive House primary in history, with a total of $24.8 million spent by various groups. Latimer secured over 58% of the vote, compared to Bowman's 42%, with 88% of votes counted on Tuesday evening.
Latimer, 70, who entered the race with strong backing from local Jewish leaders, positioned himself as a staunch defender of Israel, characterizing Hamas as a terrorist organization that must be confronted. His victory speech called for unity and condemned extremist rhetoric from both the far right and the far left. "We have to look at the arguments of the far right and the far left, and say you cannot destroy this country with your rhetoric and your arguments," Latimer declared.
Bowman, who first won office in 2020, accused AIPAC of attempting to "buy" the election in his district, which includes parts of the Bronx and Westchester County. "We should be outraged when a Super PAC of dark money can spend $20 million to brainwash people into believing something that isn't true," he stated.
The primary race was further complicated by a series of controversial incidents involving Bowman, including an episode last year where he pulled a fire alarm in a House office building, causing an emergency evacuation. Bowman claimed he did so to avoid missing crucial votes, but the act led to his censure by the House and a misdemeanor charge.
The race underscored the ongoing struggles within the Democratic Party between its progressive and moderate wings. Bowman's defeat follows a similar challenge faced by Rep. Summer Lee (D-Pa.), who successfully fended off a primary challenge earlier this year. Lee, who also faced criticism for her stance on U.S. military aid to Israel, received support from prominent Democrats, including Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) and President Joe Biden.
Another "Squad" member, Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.), also overcame a primary challenge this year from a pro-Israel candidate. However, Rep. Cori Bush (D-Mo.) is facing a difficult primary race against St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell, who has received significant financial backing from AIPAC.
The outcomes of these primaries could have significant implications for the future direction of the Democratic Party. Bowman's defeat, in particular, highlights the influence of pro-Israel lobbying groups and the challenges faced by progressive lawmakers who take strong stances on international issues.
Bowman's loss also raises questions about the future of the "Squad," a group of progressive lawmakers who gained prominence during the Trump administration. As the party grapples with internal divisions and the influence of external lobbying groups, the ability of progressive members to maintain their positions and influence within the party remains uncertain.
