George Latimer, a pro-Israel centrist, triumphed over U.S. Rep. Jamaal Bowman in a closely-watched Democratic primary in suburban New York. This election underscored the significant ideological divides within the Democratic Party, particularly concerning the conflict in Gaza.
Latimer, a former state legislator and current Westchester County executive, entered the race supported by Jewish leaders and substantial financial backing from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). He defeated Bowman, one of Congress’s most liberal and vocal critics of Israel, who has accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza.
In his victory speech in White Plains, Latimer emphasized the need for civility and unity, stating, “We have to fight to make sure we don’t vilify each other and we remember that we’re all Americans, and our common future is bound together.”
Bowman’s campaign, marked by his staunch opposition to the war and critical stance towards AIPAC’s influence, concluded with a concession speech in Yonkers where he reiterated his commitment to justice, humanity, and equality.
Despite Bowman and Latimer both advocating for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and condemning Hamas’ attack on southern Israel on October 7, their positions diverged significantly. Latimer, unlike Bowman, refused to support a symbolic House resolution backing Israel after the attack, asserting that negotiating with Hamas, which he labels a terrorist organization, is not an option.
The primary was not just a contest between differing views on Israel but also highlighted broader party dynamics. It disrupted a primary season that had seen most incumbents retaining their seats. Notably, Bowman, first elected in 2020 by challenging moderate U.S. Rep. Eliot Engel, depicted Latimer as an establishment figure influenced by Republican donors and pro-Israel groups.
Latimer countered by focusing on local issues, arguing that Bowman was more interested in national media attention than in addressing the needs of his constituents. The district, which has undergone demographic changes with a redrawing that included more of Westchester County’s suburbs, now poses a significant challenge for any candidate.
Looking ahead, Latimer is expected to be a strong contender in the general election in a district that remains a Democratic stronghold. Meanwhile, Democratic leaders nationally are increasingly favoring centrist candidates, hoping they perform better in suburban areas.
This primary’s outcome could signal a shift in Democratic strategies, especially in New York, where other key races are shaping the party’s efforts to reclaim the House majority. For instance, former CNN anchor John Avlon won the Democratic primary on Long Island, another critical race for the party in suburban New York.