Bowman attributes pro-Israel lobby’s attacks to being a ‘Black man’. Rep. Jamaal Bowman, D-N.Y., accused the pro-Israel lobby, specifically AIPAC, of targeting him because he is an “outspoken Black man” during a heated debate with his primary challenger, Westchester County Executive George Latimer, on Tuesday night. Bowman, a progressive Democrat, took shots at AIPAC, accusing it of operating as a right-wing organization and pouring millions into the race to support Latimer.
The debate, hosted by Pix11, Emerson College, and The Hill, showcased the contentious race between Bowman and Latimer, with the two candidates exchanging blows on various issues, including their stance on Israel. Bowman, who has been critical of Israel’s treatment of Palestinians, accused AIPAC of trying to silence him and other progressive voices.
“They are spending more money in this primary than any PAC has ever spent in U.S. history,” Bowman said, referring to AIPAC’s campaign arm. “Why? Because I’m an outspoken person of color. I’m an outspoken Black man. I fight against genocide in Gaza, and I fight for justice right here.”
Latimer, who has received support from AIPAC, pushed back against Bowman’s accusations, stating that the organization also supports other Black lawmakers, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Rep. Ritchie Torres.
“Just because you’ve got a few Black friends doesn’t make you an anti-racist organization,” Bowman countered, emphasizing that AIPAC’s support for some Black lawmakers does not absolve it of its alleged racism.
The debate highlighted the contentious race, with a recent poll showing Latimer leading Bowman 48% to 31%. The winner of the June 25 primary will be the first moderate Democrat to knock off a member of the left-wing “Squad.”
Bowman’s accusations against AIPAC are not new. The organization has faced criticism from progressive lawmakers and activists, who accuse it of promoting a right-wing agenda and silencing dissenting voices. AIPAC has denied these allegations, stating that it is a bipartisan organization that supports lawmakers who share its values.
The race between Bowman and Latimer has drawn national attention, with many seeing it as a test of the progressive movement’s strength in the Democratic Party. Bowman, a former teacher and principal, was elected in 2020 as part of the progressive wave that swept the nation. Latimer, a moderate Democrat, has received support from establishment Democrats and pro-Israel groups.
The debate highlighted the stark differences between the two candidates, with Bowman emphasizing his progressive credentials and Latimer touting his experience in local politics. The winner of the primary will face off against a Republican challenger in the general election, and the race is seen as a key indicator of the Democratic Party’s direction in the post-Trump era.
In conclusion, the debate between Bowman and Latimer highlighted the contentious race and the issues that divide the two candidates. Bowman’s accusations against AIPAC have sparked a national conversation about the role of money in politics and the influence of special interest groups. The outcome of the race will have significant implications for the Democratic Party and the progressive movement, and it remains to be seen whether Bowman’s accusations will resonate with voters.
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