Rep. Jamaal Bowman, a vocal Israel critic and member of the progressive “squad,” recently lost his primary election in New York’s 16th Congressional District. Bowman, who has been a fierce advocate for progressive policies and social justice issues, ran a campaign centered around his support for Medicare for All, a Green New Deal, and criminal justice reform.
One of the key issues that Bowman has been outspoken about is his criticism of Israel’s treatment of Palestinians. He has called for an end to U.S. military aid to Israel and has been a vocal supporter of the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement.
Bowman’s stance on Israel has put him at odds with more moderate members of the Democratic Party, who have traditionally been strong supporters of Israel. This divide was evident in his primary race, where Bowman faced criticism from pro-Israel groups and donors who backed his opponent, New York City Councilman Fernando Cabrera.
Despite the support he received from progressive organizations and activists, Bowman ultimately lost the primary to Cabrera, who positioned himself as a more moderate alternative to the progressive incumbent. The defeat was a blow to the progressive movement and the “squad,” as Bowman was seen as a rising star within the group.
While Bowman’s loss is disappointing for his supporters, it also highlights the challenges that progressive candidates face in more moderate districts. In a diverse district like New York’s 16th Congressional District, where there is a significant Jewish population, Bowman’s criticism of Israel may have alienated some voters.
As the Democratic Party continues to grapple with internal divisions over issues like Israel, it will be interesting to see how progressive candidates like Bowman navigate these challenges in future elections. While Bowman may have lost this primary, his outspoken advocacy for progressive policies and social justice issues will undoubtedly continue to shape the political landscape in the years to come.