Anti-Israel Rep Cori Bush Avoids Labeling Hamas as Terrorist Group

In the final days leading up to her primary election, Rep. Cori Bush (D-Mo.) sparked controversy by refusing to label Hamas a "terrorist" organization, citing caution against using such labels. During a campaign event in Ferguson, Missouri, Bush, a member of the progressive "Squad," expressed uncertainty about classifying Hamas as a terrorist entity. She drew a parallel to her experiences protesting the death of Michael Brown in 2014, when she and other activists were labeled as terrorists.

Bush stated, “Would they qualify to me as a terrorist organization? Yes. But do I know that? Absolutely not. I have no communication with them. All I know is that we were considered terrorists, we were considered Black identity extremists and all we were doing was trying to get peace.” She emphasized the importance of being careful with labels if one lacks complete information.

Hamas has been designated by the U.S. State Department as a Foreign Terrorist Organization since 1997, a fact that contrasts with Bush’s reluctance. In the wake of her comments, Bush's spokeswoman, Marina Chafa, clarified that the congresswoman acknowledges Hamas as a terrorist organization but argued that the term has been "weaponized by the far right" to justify actions against Palestinian civilians in Gaza.

Bush’s primary campaign against pro-Israel candidate Wesley Bell has brought her anti-Israel rhetoric to the forefront. Her stance has been scrutinized amid ongoing tensions between Israel and Hamas, with Jewish organizations and leaders expressing concern over her rhetoric. They have accused Bush of "fanning the flames of antisemitism" and failing to denounce attacks against Israel.

Throughout her campaign, Bush has emphasized issues like abortion rights and reparations as priorities for her district, arguing that the Israel-Hamas conflict is not a major concern for her constituents. However, her anti-Israel stance has drawn significant attention. She has consistently allied with groups and individuals who have excused or justified Hamas's actions. Since the October 7 attacks by Hamas, Bush has maintained relationships with controversial figures and groups, leading to further criticism.

In February, Bush attended a high-priced fundraiser in Los Angeles alongside individuals who have defended Hamas's actions. One of the event’s hosts, Melina Abdullah, praised the October 7 attacks as "a desperate act of self-defense." Another host, Jodie Evans, co-founder of Code Pink, has supported the idea that Hamas had a right to resist what they view as Israel's oppressive regime.

Bush’s affiliations have fueled criticism from Jewish leaders and organizations, who have rallied behind Bell in the primary race. They argue that Bush’s rhetoric and associations are damaging and contribute to rising antisemitism. Despite this, Bush has continued to focus on her broader legislative record, highlighting her activism across various social justice issues.

As the primary election looms, Bush's comments and actions regarding Israel and Hamas have become a central issue, challenging her standing with constituents and drawing national attention. The outcome of her primary race could significantly impact the political landscape and the conversation surrounding U.S.-Israel relations.

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