In the recent New York primary, the focus was on the Gaza war. Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-N.Y.) lost to Westchester County executive George Latimer, marking the first defeat of a member of the far-left “Squad” by a centrist Democrat. Latimer leads Bowman by 54.5 percent to 45.5 percent, with 53 percent reporting. The primary highlighted divisions within the Democratic party, particularly over the Israel-Hamas conflict.
The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) emerged as a significant player in the race, spending $14 million on ads to support Latimer. This made the primary the most expensive House race ever. Bowman’s District 16, covering the northern Bronx and Westchester County, is traditionally Democratic, making Latimer the likely winner in November.
Bowman, who unseated Rep. Eliot Engel in 2020 and won a second term in 2022, was known for his progressive views and support from Squad members like AOC, Rashida Tlaib, and Cori Bush, as well as Senators Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren. However, he faced controversy over his pro-Palestinian stance and other issues.
Predictions and support from establishment Democrats favored Latimer, who was seen as more aligned with mainstream views on the Middle East conflict. The race highlighted the divide between voters with strong opinions on Middle East policy. While the Gaza war was a significant factor, voters also considered candidates’ positions on various domestic issues.
The outcome of the race reflects broader divisions within the Democratic Party, with a growing gap between the radical and centrist factions. This trend could have implications for the party’s future direction. Please rewrite this sentence.
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