The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas is having an impact on a congressional primary election in New York, where Democratic candidates are divided over their stances on the situation. Incumbent U.S. Rep. Jamaal Bowman, a vocal critic of Israel, is facing a tough challenge from centrist George Latimer, who has the support of Jewish leaders in a predominantly suburban district north of New York City. The election reflects a broader divide within the Democratic Party on the issue of Israel, with Bowman being one of several House liberals who have questioned the Biden administration’s support for Israel’s response to the conflict.
Latimer, a political veteran who has served in various capacities in Westchester county, entered the race against Bowman with the goal of providing a more moderate and pragmatic representation for the district. While Bowman has been critical of Israel’s actions and has accused the country of committing genocide in Gaza, Latimer has expressed clear support for Israel and has emphasized the need for a two-state solution and negotiation for peace in the region. The primary election, set for June 25, is expected to provide insights into how Democrats are framing their message on the war and how crucial suburban districts might vote in the upcoming fall elections.
Bowman’s position on Israel has put him at odds with the Democratic Party establishment, leading to a campaign by the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) to unseat him. Bowman has accused the lobbying organization of trying to “buy” the race and silence him for his criticisms of Israel. Despite the challenges he faces from AIPAC and more centrist Democrats like Latimer, Bowman remains committed to his stance on Israel, citing the need to speak out against what he sees as violations of international law in the region. His position has resonated with progressives but may alienate more moderate voters in the district.
In a reflection of the broader political landscape, the Democratic Party in New York has been moving towards the center to attract suburban voters who tend to be more moderate. Latimer’s endorsements from figures like former presidential candidate Hillary Clinton and his emphasis on local governance and pragmatic solutions signal a shift towards a more moderate approach to governing. Both candidates support a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine but differ on their approaches to negotiations and cease-fires. While Bowman is critical of Israel’s actions and calls for a cease-fire, Latimer is more supportive of Israel and believes negotiations with Hamas, a designated terrorist organization, are non-starters.
The primary election in New York’s 2024 election is expected to provide insight into how the Democratic Party is framing its message on the Israel-Hamas conflict and how crucial suburban districts might vote in the fall. The outcome of the election could influence the party’s approach to other races and signal broader shifts in Democratic politics. Bowman, as a progressive candidate with a national profile and a strong stance on Israel, is facing a challenge from a more moderate opponent in Latimer, who emphasizes local governance and pragmatic solutions. The divide in the Democratic Party on the issue of Israel reflects broader tensions within the party and could have implications for future elections.
