George Latimer Begins Democratic Primary Challenge Against Jamaal Bowman
On Wednesday, George Latimer, Westchester County executive, announced his run for a Democratic primary challenge against Representative Jamaal Bowman of New York. This decision is expected to cause a potentially explosive contest next year, testing the growing Democratic divide over the Israel-Palestine conflict and the durability of the party’s progressive wing.
Latimer dismissed Bowman’s calls for a cease-fire and accused him of engaging in political stunts, further emphasizing that the focus should be on results rather than rhetoric.
The challenge comes at a time of political vulnerability for Bowman, with just $185,000 in his campaign account. While the pro-Israel lobby is expected to provide resources to support Latimer, influential figures like Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and organizations like New York’s Working Families Party and Justice Democrats have pledged resources to support Bowman.
The race presents a significant contrast between a charismatic Black progressive, Bowman, and an old-school white liberal, Latimer, within a district that is home to one of the country’s most influential Jewish communities and is nearly half Black and Latino.
The primary battle raises concerns among Democrats focused on the party’s chance of flipping six Republican-held swing seats in New York next year. Democrats have expressed concern that a pro-Israel advertising blitz against Bowman would inadvertently tarnish the party’s candidates in competitive races in neighboring districts.
Despite growing pressure from Jewish constituents and fellow Democrats, Bowman has refused to tone down his advocacy. Latimer’s announcement sets the stage for a heated race, raising the question of how hard Democratic leaders like Representative Hakeem Jeffries will fight to protect Bowman.
With Israel being a potentially decisive issue in the primary race, Latimer emphasized that his campaign would extend beyond the issue of Israel, reflecting progressive stances on various other matters. However, the conflict between Israel and Hamas is expected to remain at the center of the race.