‘The Squad’ is in danger.
A prominent progressive Democrat who is part of Ocasio-Cortez’s ‘The Squad’ might see his time in the House of Representatives come to an end after New York’s congressional primaries next Tuesday.
The primary contest for New York’s 16th Congressional District pits Rep. Jamaal Bowman, a former middle school principal, against Westchester County Executive George Latimer. Bowman has strong support from the progressive left, including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Latimer, representing a more moderate faction, has received endorsements from figures such as Hillary Clinton, the American Israeli Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), and former Rep. Mondaire Jones, who is seeking to return to Congress.
This race underscores a broader divide within the Democratic Party, intensified by Israel’s conflict with Gaza. Bowman is part of a left-wing coalition critical of the Israeli government’s treatment of Palestinians, a position that has faced bipartisan opposition.
The division escalated when Bowman criticized Rep. Ritchie Torres on the “Night School” podcast for his staunch support of Israel. In response, Torres indicated that Bowman’s attack might lead him to break his usual practice of refraining from criticizing fellow Democrats.
AIPAC has donated over $1.5 million to Latimer’s campaign, according to financial disclosures. Bowman and his allies have criticized AIPAC, with Ocasio-Cortez calling it a “slush fund for Republican billionaires” and comparing it to the National Rifle Association. She has also condemned the significant external funding aimed at defeating Bowman, labeling it a fundamental threat to democracy.
Ocasio-Cortez and Sen. Bernie Sanders are organizing a rally for Bowman, signaling robust support from leading progressives. However, Bowman’s stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict has led former ally Mondaire Jones to support Latimer, citing concerns from Jewish constituents about Bowman’s statements and actions.
Bowman’s current challenge is reminiscent of his initial victory, where he unseated moderate Rep. Eliot Engel in the 2020 primary. A recent poll by Emerson College Polling/PIX11/The Hill shows Latimer leading Bowman 48% to 31%.
Despite the polling numbers, Democratic strategist Max Burns from Third Degree Strategies maintains that Bowman remains popular in his district. Burns contends that fears of alienating voters by leaning too far left are unfounded, emphasizing Bowman’s strong local support and active campaign efforts.
As the primary approaches, the key question is whether Bowman’s progressive base and grassroots outreach can overcome Latimer’s moderate appeal and substantial financial support.
