Cori Bush defeated in St. Louis primary marked by controversy over Israel criticism

Rep. Cori Bush, a member of the progressive group of House lawmakers known as “the Squad,” suffered a defeat in her St. Louis district in the Democratic primary to more moderate opponent Wesley Bell. Bell was backed by a major pro-Israel group, and the race became the second most expensive House primary in U.S. history. Bell framed Bush as out of touch with constituents and highlighted investigations into her campaign finances, but Bush’s criticism of the Israeli government was a defining factor in the campaign. Bush was the first member of Congress to call for a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas and accused Israeli officials of committing genocide. The United Democracy Project, aligned with AIPAC, spent over $8 million to boost Bell’s campaign, while Justice Democrats, who oppose U.S. aid to Israel, supported Bush with over $2 million. AIPAC has been involved in other races this year, backing candidates challenging Democratic lawmakers critical of Israel. Rep. Jamaal Bowman, another Squad member, also lost his primary to a more moderate candidate aided by outside funding. Other Squad members like Rashida Tlaib and Ilhan Omar have successfully fended off challenges this year, while Omar faces a tough primary next week. Bowman showed support for Bush, acknowledging her as a “powerful truth-teller.”

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