Jamaal Bowman Suffers Primary Defeat in Expensive House Race

Progressive Challenger Unseats Incumbent

Moderate Challenger Backed by Pro-Israel Groups

Jamaal Bowman, a progressive Democrat who gained national attention after defeating Eliot L. Engel in the 2020 Democratic primary, has been defeated in a rematch by a more moderate challenger. The race, which was one of the most expensive House races in the country, saw Bowman lose to Westchester County Executive George Latimer.

Latimer, who was backed by several pro-Israel groups, ran a campaign that focused on Bowman's alleged support for the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement against Israel. Bowman has denied supporting BDS, but the issue was a major focus of the campaign.

The race was also seen as a test of the strength of the progressive wing of the Democratic Party. Bowman was one of the first members of the so-called "Squad" of progressive House lawmakers to lose a primary. The defeat is a setback for the progressive movement, which has been seen as ascendant in recent years.

The race was also notable for its high cost. Latimer spent more than $10 million on his campaign, while Bowman spent more than $5 million. The race was one of the most expensive House races in the country, and it is a sign of the increasing cost of running for office.