Former Representative Cori Bush is running for election in the 2026 midterms to reclaim Missouri's 1st Congressional District, which she lost two years ago. Bush is challenging current Representative Wesley Bell in a rematch of the 2024 Democratic primary. The district is predominantly Democratic, making the winner of the primary likely to win the general election.
The race reflects the Democratic Party's recent shift to the left, with Bush being a prominent figure in this movement. Her campaign highlights divisions within the party, particularly regarding support for Israel. In the previous election, Bell defeated Bush with significant financial backing from pro-Israel groups, which contributed $9.3 million to the campaign. Bush has been a vocal critic of Israel and has called for a ceasefire following the October 7, 2023, terrorist attack by Hamas.
Bell supports military assistance for Israel and emphasizes the need for U.S. support for allies facing threats. He argues that his first term has shown his ability to work effectively in Congress, especially in response to a tornado that impacted St. Louis in 2025. Bush criticizes Bell for his leadership and response to the tornado recovery, advocating for a more confrontational approach in Congress.
Bush gained national attention as an activist during the 2014 Ferguson protests and has been a notable member of the Squad, often opposing Democratic leadership on various issues, including police funding and foreign policy. The candidates share common ground on many domestic issues but differ significantly on U.S. support for Israel.
The outcome of this primary could indicate the direction of the Democratic Party, with a Bush victory suggesting a continued leftward trend, while a Bell victory would reinforce the establishment's influence within the party. The Missouri primaries are set for August 4, 2026.