Rep. Cori Bush, a progressive firebrand and a member of “The Squad,” bid farewell to Congress after losing her primary race in Missouri’s 1st District.
In an exit interview with POLITICO Magazine, Bush discussed her achievements, her views on Democratic Party dynamics, and the challenges she faced during her tenure.
Bush, who rose to prominence after defeating a longtime Democratic incumbent in 2020, attributed her loss to a deluge of funds—largely from the pro-Israel group AIPAC—that fueled attack ads.
She defended her record, including securing over $2 billion for her district and spearheading efforts like the pandemic-era eviction moratorium, which she said helped millions stay housed.
“AIPAC spent at least $8 million to defeat me,” Bush noted. “This wasn’t about my community or my work—it was about corporate money influencing Democratic primaries.”
Bush also reflected on her role in advancing progressive causes.
Despite setbacks, including her resolution for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict and opposition to decoupling Biden’s Build Back Better plan from infrastructure legislation, she remained unapologetic about her approach.
“I don’t operate in regret,” Bush said. “But I wish I could have pushed harder, done more to save lives. I probably could have flipped over a few more tables.”
As she departs, Bush stresses that her fight is far from over.
She hinted at future political ambitions, stating, “Running for office again is not off the table. I’m not going anywhere.”
Bush leaves a complicated legacy—one defined by unrelenting advocacy for marginalized communities and fierce criticism of entrenched systems within her own party.
