Tensions within the Democratic Party over President Joe Biden’s handling of the Israel-Hamas war are being felt in a key New York primary race between Rep. Jamaal Bowman and Westchester County Executive George Latimer in the 16th Congressional District. The race highlights the divisions within the party, with Bowman representing the progressive opposition to Israel’s conduct in the conflict and the Biden administration’s support for Israel, while Latimer takes a more centrist establishment stance in support of Israel’s rights.
The race has seen substantial spending, with both candidates pouring $3.2 million into the campaign and outside groups adding $14.4 million, primarily in support of Latimer. Bowman has garnered endorsements from fellow “squad” members and House leadership, while Latimer has the support of figures like Hillary Clinton, local officials, and legislators from Westchester County. The winner of the Democratic primary is expected to win the seat in November, highlighting the stakes of this closely watched contest.
In other races, Democrats Nancy Goroff and John Avlon are vying for the nomination in the 1st Congressional District to challenge Republican Rep. Nick LaLota, who narrowly carried the district in 2020. Goroff, a former chemistry department head, has bolstered her campaign with a personal loan, while Avlon, a former CNN anchor, has the backing of a PAC spending on his behalf. The 22nd Congressional District features Democratic candidates Sarah Klee Hood and John Mannion, with Klee Hood leading in fundraising and support from progressive veterans group VoteVets.
Several Democratic House incumbents are facing underfunded primary challengers, while Rep. Claudia Tenney is the only House Republican facing a challenge, with her opponent trailing in fundraising. Albany County District Attorney David Soares faces a rematch against attorney Lee Kindlon, with Soares emphasizing a tough-on-crime message and Kindlon accusing him of financial scandals. The primary will be held on Tuesday, with the AP providing coverage for 46 contested races including U.S. House, state legislature, and county district attorney races.
The 16th Congressional District includes parts of Bronx and Westchester counties, favoring Latimer who has deep ties in Westchester. Bowman’s base lies in the denser areas closer to New York City, while Latimer is targeting suburban and Jewish voters in Westchester. Turnout in key areas like Co-Op City and along the New Haven and Harlem train lines will play a role in determining the outcome. New York’s slow vote-counting process and potential for late-arriving mail ballots could delay results in close races. The AP will only declare a winner when it is determined that trailing candidates cannot close the gap, with automatic recounts in close races.
