Staff Reports
A group of rabbis and Jewish leaders are urging George Latimer, the Executive of Westchester County, New York, to consider challenging Rep. Jamaal Bowman for his congressional seat in the upcoming election. They have communicated their concerns to the New York Democrat in a letter, emphasizing their apprehension regarding his stance on Israel, which they believe warrants a challenge. The Jewish leaders argue that Bowman's positions run counter to their values, particularly his perceived adverse approach to the U.S.-Israel relationship.
They draw a sharp contrast between Bowman and his predecessor, former Democratic Rep. Eliot Engel, asserting that Engel consistently represented their core values and provided unwavering support for Israel's safety and security. According to these leaders, since his election, Bowman has actively worked against support for Israel within the Democratic Party and on Capitol Hill. In an effort to restore their values and reaffirm their backing for Israel, they are encouraging Latimer to announce his candidacy for Congress.
The letter underscores Latimer's potential as a return to the more establishment-oriented leadership that Bowman displaced. While Latimer's website promotes his progressive policies, he has also voiced strong support for Israel, as evidenced by the letter. Bowman has faced criticism for not taking a firm stance in support of Israel following the recent conflict with Hamas. His position has been denounced not only by Jewish leaders but also by other progressive representatives like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Ilhan Omar, and Rashida Tlaib.
In a statement to JI, Westchester County Executive George Latimer, who is weighing a primary challenge to Rep. Jamaal Bowman, accuses the pro-Palestinian rally held in Times Square on Sunday and sponsored by the DSA’s NYC chapter of “giving aid and comfort to murderers.” pic.twitter.com/fISq4MZnme
— Matthew Kassel (@matthewkassel) October 10, 2023
From a conservative standpoint, it is heartening to witness Jewish leaders holding elected officials accountable for their positions on Israel. The Democratic Party has seen a surge in progressive voices critical of Israel, and it is crucial for conservatives to rally behind candidates who endorse our strong ally in the Middle East. Latimer's potential challenge to Bowman may pave the way for a return to the stability and support for Israel that Engel provided.
