New York – CBS News Project George Latimer won the spotlight project. Democratic primary Defeated incumbent Rep. Jamaal Bowman in New York’s 16th Congressional District.
This was the most expensive House race in U.S. history. More than $25 million was raised and spent.
Entering the race in December, Latimer had a wide lead over Bowman, 48%-31%, with 21% of voters undecided, according to a recent Emerson College poll.
The race has divided prominent Democrats. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez endorsed Bowman, while Latimer received endorsements from Westchester County residents former first lady and secretary of state Hillary Clinton and Rep. Josh Gottheimer of New Jersey. with former Bowman ally Mondaire Jones.
In an interview with supporters Tuesday night, Latimer spoke of the need to mend the wounds of division in his district and across the country.
“We need to find each other and connect with each other,” he said. “We must look at the claims of the far right and the far left and say that we cannot ruin this country with your rhetoric and claims,” he said. “We have to unite across that continuum, and if you have strong beliefs, you have to work with others who still don’t share those beliefs, because America is balanced.”
Bowman also spoke to his supporters.
“We shouldn’t adapt to a sick society. We should be outraged. We should be outraged that the dark money, Super PACs, can spend $20 million to brainwash people into believing things that aren’t true. “We should be outraged about it,” he said.
He hinted that he would play again in the future.
“You know Jamaal Bowman isn’t going anywhere. If he can raise $5 million in six months, what can he do in about a year, year and a half?” he said “There are plenty of other positions to run for. Do you know what I’m saying?”
What’s at stake?
The race was closely scrutinized because it was seen as a battle between the left and centrist wings of the Democratic Party. The key differences between Bowman and Latimer are: Their Approach to the Israel-Hamas War. Bowman, a sitting congressman, has been highly critical of Israel’s response to the October 7 Hamas attack. called for a ceasefire.
Latimer currently serves as Westchester County Executive. he is Widespread support for Israel after the terrorist attacksEven visit the country.
Another point of interest to political observers is that Bowman is a member of the so-called “Squad.” Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Ilhan Omar. Bowman was the first member of the “Squad” to lose to the centrists.
“There are tremendous resources on one side and organizing ability on the other. What we’ll see here is whether the money outweighs the bodies on the streets, and political strategist Hank Sheinkopf said the money likely is.
Meanwhile, CBS News predicts Ocasio-Cortez will beat Martin Dolan in the Democratic primary for New York’s 14th Congressional District.
Race to the end
It was a race to the finish for both Bowman and Latimer, who had busy days. While Bowman visited various polling places, Latimer focused his time on local businesses.
“This is money for money. We can’t have big money coming into our area and buying up our area,” Bowman said.
“The people on the far left, the Squad, are making statements and trying to move the conversation. I’m not worried about moving the conversation. I want to see if we can solve the problem,” Latimer said. .
Voters are heard.
While the flood of advertising appears to have influenced some, others said everyday issues and day-to-day performance influenced their decisions.
“Some people told me to vote for Bowman, but why is he getting so much negative press?” One voter added that his ad influenced her decision.
“Health care is always a problem. Crime is always a problem.” Voter Jacob Mobley said.
“You’re going to get to the polls people who are loyal and consistent and who will actually be here consistently, not just show up,” said voter Zamirah El-Amin.
