Former Congresswoman Cori Bush launches 2025 campaign to retake Missouri’s 1st District, citing political backlash and outside spending in her 2024 loss.

Former Congresswoman Cori Bush has launched her campaign to reclaim Missouri’s First Congressional District seat, announcing her bid on October 3, 2025. She cited her dedication to working-class communities and criticized efforts she says undermined her 2024 loss, including a record $8.5 million campaign by AIPAC supporting her opponent, Wesley Bell. Bush, a former member of the progressive "Squad," linked her defeat to backlash over her stance on Israel and Gaza, vowing to continue fighting for democracy, lower costs, and civil rights. Bell, her former opponent and current congressman, questioned her return, stating voters had already chosen to move on. The race sets up a potential rematch between two key figures in Missouri politics.