Cori Bush Ousted in Democratic Primary by Wesley Bell Amid AIPAC Backing
- Wesley Bell, backed by AIPAC, defeats Cori Bush in a closely contested Missouri primary.
- Pro-Israel groups played a significant role in the outcome of the election.
- The defeat marks a setback for progressive candidates in high-stakes races.
In a significant political shift, St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell has defeated incumbent Rep. Cori Bush in the Democratic primary for Missouri’s 1st Congressional District. This election marks the second loss for a member of the progressive "Squad" this year, following Rep. Jamaal Bowman's defeat in New York. Bell's campaign was notably bolstered by substantial financial support from AIPAC's super PAC, which has pledged $100 million to challenge progressive candidates, particularly those critical of Israel's actions in Gaza. Bush, a vocal advocate for Palestinian rights and a critic of Israel's military response to Hamas, faced intense scrutiny and opposition from pro-Israel groups. AIPAC and its affiliated United Democracy Project reportedly spent over $9 million to support Bell and undermine Bush's campaign, which was characterized by a fierce and costly battle. Despite her previous successes, including significant funding for her district, Bush's stance on foreign policy and her perceived disconnect from local issues contributed to her defeat. Following the election, progressive organizations expressed concern over the implications of AIPAC's influence in Democratic primaries, arguing that it undermines the party's democratic values. Bush's loss highlights a growing divide within the Democratic Party, as moderate candidates gain traction against progressive incumbents. As Bell prepares for the general election, he is expected to maintain the Democratic stronghold in the district, while Bush vows to continue her advocacy for social justice and accountability in politics.