St. Louis Congressional Race Heats Up Over Infrastructure Vote
- Progressive Cori Bush's vote on the infrastructure bill is facing criticism.
- Opponents and AIPAC amplify criticism as the primary election approaches.
- Bush's return to Congress is uncertain amidst the controversy.
St. Louis Congresswoman Cori Bush reflects on her controversial decision three years ago to vote against a physical infrastructure bill, a move she claims was strategic to ensure a comprehensive economic package could be passed. Despite her opposition, the bill was ultimately approved with bipartisan support. Her opponent, St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell, has seized on this vote, arguing it demonstrates Bush's ineffectiveness and lack of support for President Biden's economic agenda as they face off in a competitive Democratic primary. Bell, who has previously run for the St. Louis County Council, has positioned himself as a candidate focused on public safety, contrasting Bush's "defund the police" stance. He asserts that her lack of collaboration with law enforcement undermines her effectiveness as a representative. This narrative has resonated with voters, prompting Bell to challenge Bush directly in the primary for Missouri’s 1st Congressional District. Support for Bush remains strong among some local leaders and organizations, including Green, who has collaborated with her on various social issues. However, the Missouri AFL-CIO, which has previously endorsed both candidates in different races, has chosen to remain neutral in this primary, highlighting the division within the party regarding Bush's infrastructure vote. The race has intensified as community members express their frustrations with both candidates, with some accusing Bell of failing to deliver justice in past cases. As the primary approaches, the candidates' contrasting visions for the district and their responses to constituents' needs will be pivotal in determining the outcome.