Former U.S. Representative Cori Bush of Missouri is seeking to regain her seat in Congress after losing to Wesley Bell in the 2024 Democratic primary. Bush, who first represented Missouri’s 1st congressional district—covering St. Louis and Ferguson—in 2020, alleges that her defeat was influenced by a substantial amount of misinformation and outside spending.
A Contentious Election
Bush claims that $15 million was spent on advertising against her, including over $8 million from a super PAC affiliated with the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). She asserts that these funds were used to spread false narratives about her positions, particularly regarding her relationship with President Joe Biden and her Democratic credentials.
Bush emphasized her commitment to issues such as the Equal Rights Amendment, addressing homelessness, advocating for a livable wage and Medicare for All, and championing reparations. She described herself as a “fighter” in Congress, willing to take unconventional actions—such as camping on the U.S. Capitol steps—to achieve results for her constituents.
Concerns About Democratic Priorities
During an appearance on Democracy Now!, Bush also addressed a report by Axios indicating that an unreleased autopsy by the Democratic National Committee concluded Kamala Harris lost support due to the administration’s policy on Gaza. Bush expressed hope that the Democratic Party would heed this information and listen to concerns about its approach to the issue.
Bush stated that she is running again because the current representative “is not meeting the moment” and was “placed there” to silence her advocacy for issues like Palestinian rights, human rights, and civil rights, as well as opposition to Project 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Cori Bush running for Congress again?
Cori Bush is running again because she believes the current representative was elected to quiet her voice and stop a movement, specifically her advocacy for issues like Palestinian rights and human rights.
How much money was spent to oppose Cori Bush in the 2024 election?
A total of $15 million was spent on advertising against Cori Bush, including over $8 million from a super PAC affiliated with AIPAC.
What issues did Cori Bush champion whereas in Congress?
Cori Bush championed the Equal Rights Amendment, addressing homelessness, advocating for a livable wage, Medicare for All, and championing reparations.
As Bush prepares to challenge Wesley Bell once more, it remains to be seen whether she can overcome the financial disadvantages and political headwinds she faced in 2024. A successful campaign could signal a renewed focus on progressive priorities within the Democratic Party, while a loss could further solidify the influence of more moderate voices.
