A Pro-Israel Super PAC Helped Defeat One Squad Member. Now It's Going After Another: Cori Bush
ST. LOUIS (AP) — In the latest chapter of a politically charged showdown, a powerful pro-Israel super PAC is mobilizing substantial resources to target another member of the progressive "Squad" in Congress. Cori Bush, the Missouri Democrat known for her outspoken criticism of Israel, is now in the crosshairs of the United Democracy Project (UDP), an offshoot of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). With over $8.4 million earmarked for the upcoming August 6 Democratic primary against St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell, the stakes are incredibly high, not just for Bush but for the broader Democratic Party as they navigate the complexities of U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East.
Bush's Stance on Israel
Cori Bush has been a notable voice in Congress since her election in 2021, championing progressive causes and human rights issues. Following the outbreak of violence in Gaza, Bush became increasingly vocal about her disapproval of Israel’s military response, labeling it as an “ethnic cleansing campaign.” Her strong stance has set her apart in a party wrestling with a divided base on how to handle the Israel-Hamas conflict. Bush took a bold step by boycotting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's recent speech before Congress, openly condemning him as a “war criminal.”
AIPAC’s Strategy and Messaging
AIPAC’s UDP has a clear objective: to unseat Bush, whom they view as one of the most vocal critics of Israel within the Democratic Party. In an official statement, AIPAC highlighted its support for pro-Israel Democrats like Wesley Bell while characterizing Bush’s comments as detrimental to the party’s mainstream stance on U.S.-Israel relations. “Cori Bush has actively worked to undermine mainstream Democratic support for the U.S.-Israel relationship,” the organization asserted, revealing its strategic focus on reshaping party dynamics by funding centrist candidates who align more closely with AIPAC’s perspective.
This battle further complicates the Democratic landscape, especially as the party grapples with divisions regarding President Joe Biden's administration's approach to Israel. The split has already been illustrated by AIPAC’s previous success, having directed nearly $15 million against U.S. Representative Jamaal Bowman, a fellow Squad member, who lost in a primary race to a more moderate candidate.
Pushback from Bush and Supporters
Amid the financial onslaught, Bush remains defiant. She argues that AIPAC's backing often aligns with right-wing, pro-Trump donors, stating, “This is only the beginning. If they can unseat me, then they’re going to continue to come after more Democrats.” She expresses confidence that voters in St. Louis understand her long-standing commitment to peace, democracy, and humanity, positioning her as an advocate for human rights amid the fiery political climate.
Bush’s controversial remarks about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict have sparked backlash, even from some traditional allies. For instance, her post-Hamas attack statement citing Israel's actions as “collective punishment” was met with criticism, prompting Wesley Bell to reenter the political fray, shifting his focus from a Senate bid to challenging Bush directly in the primary. Bell called her actions “wrong and offensive,” reiterating the need for constructive dialogue aimed at a peaceful resolution in the region.
Broader Political Implications
The battle over Cori Bush's seat is emblematic of the rift within the Democratic Party on Middle East policy. The race is gaining attention not only for its candidates but also for the external forces at play. DMFI PAC is supporting Bell while various progressive organizations like Justice Democrats advocate for Bush. The coalition “Reject AIPAC,” comprising left-leaning, pro-peace activists, Jewish organizations, and Arab American groups, appears poised to rally support for Bush, emphasizing their commitment to countering the powerful influence of super PACs on election outcomes.
Justice Democrats spokesperson Usamah Andrabi has condemned AIPAC’s spending as an aerial assault on democracy, questioning whether electoral seats can be bought in this manner. He urges a reevaluation of the Democratic Party’s core values and priorities, advocating for a more inclusive approach that addresses the needs of everyday Americans rather than catering to affluent lobbyists.
Key Endorsements and the Role of Leadership
Despite the financial backing for Wesley Bell, Bush garners support from prominent figures within the Democratic leadership. Notable endorsements from Senator Bernie Sanders, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, and other influential party members signal a recognition of Bush’s grassroots mobilization and alignment with progressive ideals. Interestingly, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee has refrained from aligning itself with either candidate in Missouri, showcasing the complexity and sensitivity surrounding this electoral battle.
Conclusion
As Cori Bush faces a significant challenge from well-funded opponents, the implications extend beyond her fate in the congressional primary. This election offers a lens through which to view the broader dynamics within the Democratic Party as it confronts a changing electorate and a critical foreign policy debate. With entrenched positions on both sides of the Israel-Palestinian conflict, the political landscape promises to be contentious, and the outcome of this primary may well reverberate through future elections and allegiances within the party. As voters weigh the candidates’ positions, the tension between ideology, finance, and grassroots activism will be more apparent than ever.