A progressive Democrat known as a member of the “Squad” is facing a tough primary battle in New York’s 16th Congressional District. Rep. Jamaal Bowman, who is backed by progressive left figures like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, is up against Westchester County Executive George Latimer, who has support from Hillary Clinton, AIPAC, and former Rep. Mondaire Jones.
The primary race has become contentious due to differing views on Israel’s conflict in Gaza. Bowman has criticized Torres for supporting Israel, leading to tension between the two Democrats. AIPAC has donated over $1.5 million to Latimer’s campaign, prompting criticism from Bowman’s camp.
Ocasio-Cortez has accused AIPAC of being a “slush fund for Republican billionaires” and has rallied support for Bowman. Senator Bernie Sanders is also backing Bowman in the race. Jones, a former ally of Bowman’s, has publicly endorsed Latimer over concerns about Bowman’s stance on Israel.
Bowman originally won his seat by defeating a moderate Democrat in the 2020 primary. Recent polling shows Latimer in the lead, but Democratic strategist Max Burns believes Bowman is still popular among voters in the district.
The primary race highlights divisions within the Democratic Party and the ongoing debate over Israel’s actions in Gaza. As the election approaches, both candidates are working to secure support from voters in the district.