Outgoing Democratic Representative Cori Bush delivered a heartfelt farewell address to a nearly empty House chamber following her loss in the Missouri primary.

The Daily Caller reported that during the emotional 33-minute speech, Bush reflected on her accomplishments, thanked her supporters, and expressed deep gratitude for her time as a member of "The Squad."

Her exit from Congress marked the end of a tenure defined by both achievements and controversies, culminating in her defeat by St. Louis prosecutor Wesley Bell in the Democratic primary.

On Friday, Bush took to the House floor for her farewell speech, visibly emotional as she acknowledged the people who had stood by her side throughout her congressional career. Despite the low turnout, Bush's speech was a moment of personal reflection, as she thanked her political allies and highlighted her role in the far-left faction of the Democratic Party, known as "The Squad."

Bush’s remarks highlighted her deep appreciation for the support she received during her time in Congress. She paid tribute to her friends and colleagues, including members of "The Squad," such as Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), Rep. Ayanna Pressley (D-MA), and Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN). Bush also mentioned Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-NY), another Squad member who had also lost his primary election.

Acknowledging the Impact of 'The Squad'

Acknowledging the impact of "The Squad," Bush expressed pride in their collective achievements during their time in Congress. "Our Squad was never small and never silent," Bush told the few members present, emphasizing their group’s role in changing the course of history. Her comments reflected the broader significance of her and her colleagues' influence, noting that they had made a lasting difference both in the political landscape and in her own life.

Bush also referred to the strong bond shared by the Squad members, calling them family. "We are family," Bush said, as she spoke of their unique connection formed through shared experiences in Congress. She recalled the collective struggles and victories that defined their time in office.

Cori Bush’s exit from Congress follows her defeat in the August 2024 primary, when she lost to Wesley Bell, a St. Louis prosecutor with moderate Democratic views. Bell's win was seen as a rejection of Bush's more progressive policies, which had drawn both support and controversy. Among the challenges Bush faced during her time in office were accusations of misuse of campaign funds, which involved paying her husband for campaign-related work, and her public claims about using her hands to heal tumors.

Controversies Leading to Bush's Primary Defeat

Criticism marred her primary campaign after Bush opposed a House resolution condemning Hamas’ terrorist attack on Israel on October 7, 2024, sparking backlash from many individuals and Jewish organizations. Her stance, widely condemned by opponents, became a key point of contention during the primary.

Despite the controversies, Bush's farewell speech focused on the positive aspects of her tenure and the close relationships she formed. She thanked her allies for their unwavering support, saying, “I am so grateful and I am so honored, to have the greatest group of friends within these walls who are anything but silent.”

The Future of 'The Squad' and Progressive Politics

While Bush’s speech was a tribute to the friendships and accomplishments she had made in Congress, it also marked the end of an era for "The Squad," a group of lawmakers who, despite facing significant political challenges, have left a lasting impact on the Democratic Party.

The loss of Bush and Bowman highlights the shifting political dynamics within the Democratic Party, as moderate candidates continue to make inroads in traditionally progressive districts. With the changing of the guard, the future of "The Squad" remains uncertain, but Bush’s farewell serves as a reminder of the group’s historical significance.

As Bush concluded her remarks, she reiterated the lasting bond shared with her fellow Squad members, noting, “We will always be connected for our time right here in Congress together, our impact on our world, and for the experiences that we have endured together this cycle.”

A Lasting Legacy in Progressive Politics

Bush’s brief tenure showcased her passionate advocacy for progressive causes and her deep commitment to addressing the issues that matter most to her constituents. However, as she concludes her political career, uncertainty surrounds the future of her progressive vision for the country.

In the aftermath of Bush’s primary defeat, many observers will likely continue to scrutinize her legacy. Despite the controversies and challenges, her speech was a poignant reminder of the emotional and historical journey she had undertaken as a member of "The Squad" and as a trailblazer for the progressive movement in American politics.