YONKER, NY –Congressman Jamaal Bowman and Westchester County Executive George Latimer competing in the Democratic primary in New York’s 16th Congressional Districttook part in a heated debate on Wednesday evening.
Early voting begins Saturday and runs through June 23. Election day is June 25.
Bowman and Latimer clash over the war between Washington and Israel
The pair clashed over many issues, including the future direction of Washington.
“We almost have a new President Trump because of the inaction of my opponent and so many others on these issues,” Bowman said.
“Maybe we have a President Trump because Jamaal can talk well, but he can’t perform well,” Latimer said.
A central flashpoint was the war between Israel and Hamas.
“We should not be sending any more weapons to Israel at this time. They engage in collective punishment by killing mainly women, children and babies in Gaza,” Bowman said.
“What the congressman fails to mention in all of this is the role Hamas has played. It’s not just a simple condemnation of what they did. What they did that day on October 7 caused everything that followed,” Latimer said.
Bowman and Latimer address local issues in debate
The debate comes in the midst of a looming commuter rail crisis, just a week away Gov. Kathy Hochul decided to pause the implementation of congestion pricing. Both candidates say the MTA’s problems need to be addressed, but neither would give a definitive answer on whether or not they support the pause.
“The governor made a pause. It’s not up for debate,” Latimer said.
“I need further conversation and more clarity,” Bowman said.
In a district that includes parts of the northern Bronx and Westchester, the pair were asked how they could bridge the wealth gap between rich and poor.
“We need reparations first and foremost. My opponent does not support reparations. I support reparations with all my heart,” Bowman said.
“He has a bill with minimal sponsors. Fourteen trillion dollars, that’s twice the national budget. That is not a serious proposal,” Latimer said.
In terms of employment for the district, the candidates stated what they stood for to turn the Empire City site in Yonkers into a full-fledged casino.
“Yes, sincerely,” said Latimer.
“No, there are a lot of ways to create jobs than at any other casino,” Bowman said.
Dick Brennan
