Former congresswoman Cori Bush shared a photo from a July 8 campaign event in the St. Louis area showing her alongside Christopher Winston, a member of the Democratic Socialists of America known for controversial statements.
Bush, who is seeking to regain her seat in the August 4 Democratic primary against incumbent Rep. Wesley Bell, posted the image on social media with a message expressing pride in support from DSA members.
Winston, who goes by the online name BlackRedGuard and has described himself as a Maoist, has previously made statements calling for execution after a revolution and criticizing landlords. The photo was taken at a meeting with St. Louis DSA members.
Bush's campaign has received backing from DSA groups and other organizations focused on issues including housing costs and foreign policy. Her response to questions about the association referenced a clip of a television host discussing democratic socialism.
The image drew attention after being highlighted by a Manhattan Institute reporter on July 14.