Summer Lee Just Won a Tough Primary. Other Progressives May Use Her Playbook.

The Pennsylvania progressive pulled off a primary win against an opponent who bashed her for being insufficiently loyal to President Joe Biden.

Congresswoman Summer Lee
Rep. Summer Lee defeated Bhavini Patel in the Democratic primary.
Gene J. Puskar/AP

Rep. Summer Lee won her first Democratic congressional primary by less than one point. This time around, the race wasn’t close.

Lee defeated primary challenger Bhavini Patel, who made Lee’s criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza central to the campaign.

The Tuesday primary was the first test this cycle for progressive members who make up the “squad,” some of whom are facing formidable challenges from more moderate Democrats. Her victory could serve as a guide for others hoping to keep their seats this time around.