It was no surprise, but on June 30, Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez endorsed Congressman Jamaal Bowman for re-election in New York’s 16th Congressional District, which includes all of southern Westchester, including Yonkers and Mt. Vernon.
Rep. Ocasio-Cortez and Rep. Bowman have worked together on legislation and in advocating for progressive issues of concern since Bowman’s election two years ago, and the two are unofficial members of “the Squad,” made up of six of the most progressive members of the House.
“I am beyond excited to endorse my brother in service, Congressman Jamaal Bowman for re-election in NY-16. Last week, SCOTUS made it clear that gun rights are far more important than the rights of women and human lives. At a time like this, we need representatives in Congress who understand that our system is rigged for a select few and who are willing to fight to completely transform our structures. For New Yorkers in NY-16, that leader is Congressman Jamaal Bowman. I am proud to call him my colleague in Congress and look forward to continuing to work with him for many years to come,” said Congresswoman Ocasio-Cortez.
Congresswoman Ocasio-Cortez’s endorsement of Jamaal Bowman during his insurgent 2020 primary campaign proved to be a turning point in the race. In the year and a half since Bowman took office, he and Ocasio-Cortez have taken their fight for the people of their two districts, a Green New Deal, and Medicare for All to Washington.
“I’m excited to once again be endorsed by one of the most important Democratic leaders of our time — Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez,” said Congressman Jamaal Bowman. “From her community organizing to her historic 2018 victory, AOC has been fighting relentlessly in Washington DC for working people and historically marginalized communities. Her brilliance, work ethic, and undeniable love for humanity continues to inspire me and millions across the country. I look forward to continuing to fight by her side both in the Bronx and in Washington.”
Congressman Bowman has also been endorsed by the Working Families Party, NARAL, Planned Parenthood Action Fund, 1199 SEIU, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and NY US Senators Schumer and Gillibrand.
Bowman faces a challenge in the upcoming democratic primary in August from two members of the Westchester County Board of Legislators. Legislator Vedat Gashi, announced his candidacy in the Spring, while Legislator Catherine Parker announced her candidacy last month. Gashi lives in Yorktown, Parker is from Rye. Bowman lives in Yonkers.
No republican candidate has yet been announced since the courts redrew the 16th District.
