Cori Bush Avoids Debate Stage in Primary Challenge Against Wesley Bell
Former Representative Cori Bush, endorsed by the Democratic Socialists of America, is avoiding the debate stage in a primary challenge against first-term Representative Wesley Bell in Missouri. Bell, who defeated Bush in 2024, has called for three televised debates ahead of the August 4 primary, but Bush has not accepted the invitation. Bell expressed disappointment, stating that incumbents typically benefit from debates and that voters deserve to hear directly from the candidates. The two did appear on a local radio show, where Bush mentioned concerns about audience presence at debates, referencing a previous town hall disrupted by protests. The primary is shaping up to be a contentious battle over the Democratic Party's direction, with Bush criticizing Bell's support from pro-Israel groups. 
