Cori Bush, Missouri’s newest congresswoman
History in Missouri as activist Cori Bush (D) becomes the state’s first Black congresswoman. Bush will be representing the 1st District, which includes St. Louis. She beat her opponent Anthony Rogers (R) by a wide margin; 84.3% to 13.9%.
Americans clinch their teeth as the presidential election is undecided. Statewide victories on either side of the aisle are celebrated. This particular win is important because protests against police brutality fueled her passion.
Cori Bush’s political track record
Firstly, Bush was inspired to participate in politics following Mike Brown’s death. Since then, she has been an active member of her community. Bush is a member of Congressional Progressive Caucus, an advocate of Medicare for All and a supporter of the Green New Deal.
“We protested on the streets for over 400 days. Now, we’re taking the fight for Black Lives from Ferguson’s streets to Congress. Justice will be served.”
The congresswoman is an example of how Black women historically turn trauma into political action.
Bush’s political triumph
Although Cori Bush’s victory appears to be a shoo-in, she did not get there without a fight. Bush beat Representative Lacy Clay. Clay served for many years, following in his father’s footsteps.
Bush’s presence in politics will represent a new era of leadership coming from St. Louis. She is not only an activist, she is a servant of the people. As a registered nurse, she takes pride in the work nurses have done throughout the pandemic.
Coverage of women in politics
Local and national news media has tracked the political journey of Cori Bush among other female politicians.
Bush and three other candidates appeared in a Netflix documentary called “Knock Down The House.” The documentary debuted at Sundance in 2019.
“Knock Down the House” followed the 2018 primary campaigns of four female and progressive candidates including Bush, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Paula Jean Swearengin and Amy Vilela.
All in all, the congresswoman is posed and ready to make some change for the people.