Embattled Rep. Jamaal Bowman, D-N.Y., a member of the progressive "Squad," apologized Wednesday for remarks he made downplaying sexual violence committed by Hamas during its Oct. 7 attack on Israel.
In November, Bowman said the reports of sexual violence committed by Hamas against Israel were "propaganda" and "lies." He was later contradicted by a United Nations report.
"Immediately when the U.N. provided additional evidence, I voted to condemn the sexual violence," Bowman said on WNYC. "I apologize for my comments, and now we're continuing to do the work to fight sexual violence and domestic violence in all its forms."
Bowman is locked in a tough primary fight against Westchester County Executive George Latimer in New York's 16th Congressional District, and support for Israel has been a centerpiece of the campaign. Bowman has condemned Israel, called its conduct "genocide," and immediately advocated for a cease-fire after the attacks.
Polls have shown Bowman trailing 48% to 31% before the Tuesday primary.
Latimer has been boosted by millions of dollars in spending from AIPAC, a pro-Israel lobby and was endorsed by Hillary Clinton. Bowman has been endorsed by Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y.
According to an Emerson College-The Hill-PIX11 poll, 51% of respondents had a favorable view of Bowman and 43% had an unfavorable view. Latimer had a 65% favorable rating and a 23% unfavorable rating.
The poll was conducted June 6-8 with 425 likely Democratic primary voters in the New York 16th Congressional District. The margin of error is 4.7%.