Clinton Endorses Latimer In Democratic Primary Bid Against Progressive Rep. Bowman

In a notable development in the Democratic primary race for New York’s 16th Congressional District, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has endorsed George Latimer, the challenger to incumbent progressive Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-NY). Clinton, who served as secretary of state during President Barack Obama’s administration and was the Democratic nominee in the 2016 presidential election, voiced her support for Latimer on Twitter.

“With Trump on the ballot, we need strong, principled Democrats in Congress more than ever. In Congress, @LatimerforNY will protect abortion rights, stand up to the NRA, and fight for President Biden’s agenda—just like he’s always done. Make a plan to vote by June 25th!” Clinton tweeted.

Latimer, the current Westchester County Executive, expressed his appreciation for Clinton’s endorsement, tweeting, “I’m honored to have the support of @HillaryClinton, whose decades of service are an inspiration.”

The endorsement from Clinton serves as a significant boost to Latimer’s campaign, as he seeks to unseat Rep. Bowman, a progressive who took office in 2021. Rep. Bowman has received backing from Planned Parenthood Action Fund, Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT).

Last year, on Independence Day, Rep. Bowman made a controversial statement, declaring, “This July 4th, we must remember that we stand on stolen land toiled by enslaved Africans and recommit ourselves to the fight for freedom, equality, & justice so that these ideals are accessible to everyone, not just a privileged few. We are not free until everyone is truly free.”

As the Democratic primary in New York’s 16th Congressional District intensifies, Clinton’s endorsement of Latimer may prove to be a significant factor in the race against Rep. Bowman.