A Progressive Victory: Ilhan Omar Wins Primary After Avoiding Pro-Israel Spending

Omar's Victory a Boost for Progressives

D-Minn Rep. Ilhan Omar fended off several challengers in Tuesday's primary, delivering a victory to progressives following recent losses by other "squad" members.

Omar's success is attributed to the absence of spending by pro-Israel groups, which heavily influenced the defeat of other progressive House Democrats this summer.

Omar's Race Gained Attention

Omar's race garnered significant attention after two other members of the "squad," Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York and Cori Bush of Missouri, lost their primaries.

The losses raised concerns about the influence of pro-Israel spending on Democratic primaries and the viability of progressive candidates.

Omar Defeated Close Challenger

Omar defeated her closest challenger, former Minneapolis City Council member Don Samuels, by just 2 points, a narrow margin that underscores the competitiveness of the race.

Samuels had the support of some establishment Democrats and pro-Israel groups, but Omar's strong base of progressive support ultimately prevailed.

Implications for the Future

Omar's victory is seen as a sign of hope for progressives, who have faced challenges in recent primaries.

It suggests that progressive candidates can still win elections, even in the face of significant opposition from pro-Israel groups.