The New York state legislature has introduced a bill proposing new congressional district lines, which would extend Rep. Tom Suozzi’s district into Suffolk County and move Co-Op City into Rep. Jamaal Bowman’s district. The proposed bill overrules existing state law and could impact an upcoming Democratic primary. This comes after lawmakers rejected the bipartisan proposal from the Independent Redistricting Commission, prompting the Legislature to draw their own lines following previous legal battles over redistricting.
Three years after the January 6 Capitol riot, the inquiry continues to be a significant point of discussion, reflecting on the long-term implications for American democracy. Meanwhile, in France, consumers are initiating a boycott against PepsiCo, although the specific reasons for the boycott are not detailed in the excerpt provided. The New York Times Audio app offers a platform for engaging with these stories through immersive journalism, available exclusively to Times subscribers on iOS.
Westchester County Executive George Latimer has officially announced his campaign for the 16th Congressional District, setting up a Democratic primary challenge against incumbent Rep. Jamaal Bowman. Latimer's entry into the race poses a serious threat to Bowman, who has gained national recognition as a progressive voice. While Latimer has been courted by the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), he downplayed the AIPAC connection and stated that the race should not be solely focused on Israel. The primary is expected to be expensive, with AIPAC potentially spending $100 million to oust progressive congress members. The race could serve as a litmus test for moderate policies versus progressive ideology within the Democratic Party.
Manhattan-based lobbying firm Gotham Government Relations has severed ties with Stuart Seldowitz, a former Obama administration official, after a video went viral showing him harassing a halal cart vendor in New York City. Seldowitz, who previously worked in the U.S. State Department, was named Foreign Affairs Chair at Gotham Government Relations last year. The video shows Seldowitz asking racist and Islamophobic questions, making derogatory comments, and threatening the vendor. Other companies, including Northwestern Mutual, have also distanced themselves from Seldowitz. Local officials have condemned his behavior, and the NYPD is monitoring the situation.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has faced criticism for offering no support or sympathy to Palestinian New Yorkers amid the escalating violence and humanitarian crisis in Israel and Palestine. While she has issued multiple statements in support of Israel and Jewish New Yorkers, Hochul urged "law-abiding Palestinians to reject Hamas" but did not address the worsening situation faced by Gazan civilians. Her comments have been condemned by left-wing politicians and organizations, who argue that her remarks drive a wedge between communities rather than bringing them together. The New York City metropolitan area is home to the largest Palestinian population in the United States.
