To provide context, a key factor contributing to Rep. Bowman’s defeat was his remarks regarding Israel in relation to the Israel-Palestine conflict, which prompted AIPAC, the American-Israeli Political Action Committee, to invest an astonishing $15 million into the primary campaign aimed at defeating him. This AIPAC initiative was successful, much to the dismay of the Squad.
Among those who expressed their views on his defeat was the far-left Rep. AOC, who addressed reporters regarding Rep. Bowman’s loss and the perceived lack of support from Democratic leadership. She remarked, “This was about $20 million in big money being spent in a historic sum, unlike any seen in American history, point blank period.”
She further stated, “And I think we need to have a real conversation about AIPAC. I think that what we do need to have [is] a real conversation about is how a Republican, primarily Republican and largely Republican financed organization is playing and dumping money and playing an extremely divisive role in the Democratic Party.”
Rep. AOC then emphasized that AIPAC’s involvement in the removal of Squad members has complicated her far-left faction’s ability to “coalition build,” telling reporters, “And by the way, it makes it much harder for us to coalition build and to create the winning coalitions that not just can ensure that we have representation at the congressional level,”
She subsequently stated, “However, they are investing this money into our party for a specific purpose, as we require that coalition to regain majorities in the House. We need the energy and coalition of a progressive base to ensure our success both statewide and federally, and Republicans are allocating funds to support these efforts for a reason, as individuals and representatives like Jamaal Bowman can engage and connect with communities that many other segments of the Democratic Party cannot reach.”
She continued, “Therefore, if Republicans can fund the removal of individuals like that from the equation, they can also facilitate their own success in November. Consequently, I believe it is crucial for all of us as a party, irrespective of our individual positions, to engage in a discussion about why Republicans are playing such a significant role in financing division among Democrats.”
Watch her here:
Representative Bowman expressed comparable sentiments regarding AIPAC just prior to his defeat in the primary election. He declared emphatically, “We are going to demonstrate to AIPAC the strength of the South Bronx! People inquire why I use such coarse language. What am I expected to do? You are targeting me! You are targeting my family! You are targeting my children! Should I not defend myself?”
