Janice R. Andrews
Surprising results emerged from Tuesday’s primary elections in Colorado, New York, South Carolina, and Utah, indicating substantial defeats for Democratic Party progressives and candidates favored by President Trump. Several important races came to surprising conclusions on one of the most thrilling nights of the main season. The following are the key conclusions drawn from the findings:
1. The Squad Takes a Hit from Bowman’s Loss
Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-N.Y.) losing to Westchester County Executive George Latimer was a significant blow to the Democratic Party’s left flank. Bowman, a progressive “Squad” member, was the subject of severe criticism and controversy, particularly because of his views on Israel.
Bowman’s votes against sending further help to Israel and his advocacy for an ongoing truce in Gaza were major points of contention for Latimer’s campaign. Latimer chastised Bowman for his early remarks on sexual assault during the attack on October 7, which he subsequently withdrew and expressed regret for. Bowman could not overcome the doubts and criticism of his constituency, even with the endorsements and backing of progressives. Other progressive senators who take strong positions on divisive topics like US policy toward Israel should take note of his defeat.
Since the Squad’s founding, this setback is the first time one of its members has lost a major test. The result might have an impact on how other progressive caucus members approach their campaigns, especially because Rep. Cori Bush (D-Mo.) will be facing a tough primary in August.
2. A rough night for Trump’s endorsed candidates
Although the support of former President Donald Trump has been a potent force in the GOP primary, Tuesday’s results exposed its limitations. Numerous candidates who received Trump’s endorsements lost their individual contests, suggesting that the former president’s influence inside the party may face obstacles.
Trump-backed preacher Mark Burns was barely beaten by nurse practitioner Sheri Biggs in the runoff for South Carolina’s 3rd Congressional District. For Gov. Henry McMaster (R), who had backed Biggs, this was also a victory.
State GOP Chair Dave Williams, who was supported by Trump, lost his primary in Colorado’s 5th Congressional District to Jeff Crank, who was backed by Republican leaders including House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.). Williams’ downfall was aided by his polarizing demeanor and earlier remarks.
In Utah, more moderate contender Rep. John Curtis (R-Utah) defeated Trump-backed Riverton Mayor Trent Staggs in the Republican primary for the Senate seat being held by retiring Sen. Mitt Romney (R-Utah).
Although Trump’s endorsement helped Gabe Evans win in Colorado’s 8th District, Tuesday’s overall results point to a possible decline in Trump’s power and the fact that not every candidate he backs will win.
3. Boebert Cruises Towards Triumph
After Rep. Ken Buck (R-Colorado) retired, Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colorado), who was well-known for her divisive remarks and deeds, gained a safer route to reelection by challenging in the more reliably Republican 4th District of Colorado. Boebert prevailed in the tough primary despite allegations of carpetbagging and a continuing dispute about theatrical disturbances.
The front-runner in the special election to replace Buck’s seat chose to run for the balance of the term rather than the entire term, which helped her chances of winning. Trump’s support also made sure her name appeared first on the ballot. Boebert’s win indicates that she is still popular with her supporters and that she will remain a significant player in Congress.
4. Success for AIPAC and Other Israel-Friendly Organizations
The Latimer-Bowman campaign benefited greatly from the substantial financial support of pro-Israel organizations such as the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). These organizations spent millions to oppose Bowman, making this the most costly House primary in American history. Pro-Israel money exceeded Bowman’s spending by a ratio of seven to one.
Bowman decried the impact of outside money in the contest and accused these groups of being involved in right-wing efforts to unseat him. Latimer, however, defended his fundraising strategy by highlighting his close links to the area and the backing of the community. Pro-Israel organizations have won a big triumph because of their readiness to engage in elections on behalf of their favorite candidates, as seen by their large spending.
5. The Democrats’ Intervention in Colorado Primary Is Ineffective
The 3rd District of Colorado’s GOP primary was not influenced by Democrats in the way that was intended. In an attempt to facilitate Adam Frisch’s (D) road to victory, Democrats entered the Republican primary and nominated election denier Ron Hanks over establishment-backed lawyer Jeff Hurd.
Seeing Hanks as a less formidable opponent, Frisch’s campaign and other Democrats ran advertisements supporting or disparaging Hurd. Hurd, nevertheless, easily secured the nomination, which made Frisch’s battle more difficult. According to Cook Political Report, the contest is rated as “lean Republican,” meaning Democrats will have a more difficult time winning the seat.
The Democratic Party’s progressive wing and candidates who received Trump’s endorsement faced formidable obstacles during Tuesday’s primaries. The loss of Representative Jamaal Bowman should serve as a lesson to progressives, and the failure of many candidates who embraced Trump suggests that his power inside the GOP may be limited. The conclusion of the Latimer-Bowman contest shows the considerable influence of pro-Israel groups on political decisions, and Rep. Lauren Boebert’s victory illustrates her tenacity. Finally, Democratic meddling in Colorado’s GOP primary highlights the dangers and unpredictabilities involved in attempting to sway the opponent party’s selection process.
