Missouri Rep. Cori Bush has lost her Democratic primary to St. Louis County prosecutor Wesley Bell, marking a significant win for pro-Israel groups. This outcome mirrors the recent defeat of New York Rep. Jamaal Bowman, highlighting the influence of these groups in Democratic primaries.
Bush, a prominent member of the progressive House “squad,” faced a challenging primary in Missouri’s 1st Congressional District. The race became the second-most expensive primary of the cycle, following closely behind Bowman’s contest in New York. Bush's vocal advocacy for a ceasefire in Gaza further intensified the competition.
Despite receiving support from progressive organizations, local leaders, and top congressional Democrats, Bush was unable to secure victory against Bell. Bell is now positioned as the strong favorite to win the general election for the deeply Democratic St. Louis-area seat.
This defeat marks the fourth instance this year of a House member losing a primary, underscoring the dynamic nature of Democratic politics and the shifting landscape within the party.
