Cori Bush Announces Rematch for Missouri Seat

Former two-term Rep. Cori Bush announced she is running to reclaim Missouri’s 1st Congressional District, releasing a campaign video and X post saying St. Louis needs a fighter who will lower costs, protect communities and won’t answer to wealthy donors. Bush, a member of the progressive “Squad,” was ousted in the 2024 Democratic primary by Wesley Bell after substantial pro‑Israel spending by AIPAC and allied groups — running into the millions — that was widely credited with helping Bell win by roughly 5–6 points (about 6,800 votes). Her outspoken pro‑Palestinian positions, including early calls for a Gaza ceasefire, made her a central target of those outside groups. Bush’s campaigns and time in office have faced scrutiny over campaign security spending and a Justice Department inquiry into alleged misuse of funds; her former partner/husband was later indicted on unrelated COVID‑relief fraud charges, and Bush has not been charged. Bell said voters already rendered their verdict and defended his record, and the anticipated 2026 rematch sets up a high‑profile Democratic primary in St. Louis that national groups may watch closely and that could divert resources as Democrats aim to retake the House.