Jamaal Bowman Faces $20 Million AIPAC-Backed Challenge in Most Expensive NY Primary

Jun 25, 2024, 08:36 AM

In a closely watched Democratic primary in New York's 16th Congressional District, incumbent Rep. Jamaal Bowman faces a formidable challenge from Westchester County Executive George Latimer. The race has garnered significant national attention, primarily due to the unprecedented financial involvement of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), which has spent over $20 million, including $17,000 an hour, to unseat Bowman. Bowman's criticism of Israeli policies and his pro-ceasefire stance have made him a target for AIPAC, which supports Latimer, a pro-Israel candidate. High-profile endorsements and campaign events have marked the race, with figures like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Bernie Sanders rallying for Bowman. The outcome of this primary, the most expensive House race in U.S. history, is seen as a critical test of the influence of pro-Israel lobbying within the Democratic Party and could have broader implications for the party's stance on U.S.-Israel relations. Bowman is also at risk of becoming the first 'Squad' member to lose a congressional seat.