Jamaal Bowman loses most expensive primary race ever

New York congressman Jamaal Bowman has lost a primary challenge, according to projections, in a closely watched race that exposed a bitter rift within the Democratic party over the Israel-Gaza war.

George Latimer, 70, entered the race at the urging of local Jewish leaders who were angry with Mr Bowman over his vocal criticism of Israel. The former school principal has accused Israel of genocide, which it denies, and repeatedly questioned the Biden administration's support of Israel's government.

One group, the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, or Aipac, spent nearly $15m (£12m) in the primary to unseat the left-wing representative in New York's 16th congressional district.

Overall, $24.8m was spent by various groups in the race, making it the most expensive House of Representatives primary in history. With 88% of votes counted on Tuesday evening, Mr Latimer had won more than 58% of the vote, compared with 42% for Mr Bowman.

A long-time former county executive, Mr Latimer has portrayed himself as a steadfast defender of Israel and characterised Hamas as a terrorist organisation that cannot be negotiated with.