Former Squad member reignites campaign as debate over Israel policy reshapes St. Louis politics.
Former Missouri congresswoman Cori Bush has formally filed to reclaim her former House seat, setting up a renewed political battle in St. Louis after her 2024 primary defeat.
Bush previously lost to Wesley Bell, a fellow Democrat whose campaign received significant support from pro-Israel advocacy networks. Reports at the time indicated that AIPAC invested millions of dollars in the race, contributing to one of the most closely watched primaries in the country.Former Missouri congresswoman Cori Bush has formally filed to reclaim her former House seat, setting up a renewed political battle in St. Louis after her 2024 primary defeat.
Bush previously lost to Wesley Bell, a fellow Democrat whose campaign received significant support from pro-Israel advocacy networks. Reports at the time indicated that AIPAC invested millions of dollars in the race, contributing to one of the most closely watched primaries in the country.
Bush filed her candidacy in Jefferson City and told supporters she intends to run a grassroots campaign, rejecting corporate PAC contributions. She argued that outside funding distorted the previous race and claimed voters were influenced by what she described as misleading advertising.
In interviews following her announcement, Bush alleged that her loss was driven by misinformation and orchestrated opposition tied to her outspoken positions, particularly her criticism of US policy toward Israel and her advocacy for Palestinian Arab causes. She stated that she believes the outcome did not reflect what she described as the “truth” presented to voters.
Bush has long been associated with the progressive bloc known as the “Squad” in the House of Representatives. In the aftermath of the October 7 Hamas attacks on Israel in 2023, she called for ending US government support for what she characterized as Israeli military policies. Her remarks, along with similar comments from other progressive lawmakers, drew sharp criticism from then-White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, who publicly condemned the statements.
The 2024 primary became a flashpoint in the broader national debate over US-Israel relations, Democratic Party dynamics, and the influence of advocacy organizations in elections. Bush maintains that financial backing from pro-Israel groups unfairly shaped the race, while her opponents argue that voters made a clear and legitimate choice at the ballot box.
Her reentry into the contest signals that Israel policy and Middle East politics will again play a prominent role in Missouri’s congressional race. With tensions high both domestically and internationally, the campaign is expected to draw significant national attention.
