In a surprising turn of events, the Congressional Progressive Caucus PAC recently rescinded its endorsement of former Rep. Mondaire Jones. Jones, who lost his re-election bid in 2022, is now running for a second term in Congress. One might think a politician focused on championing policies such as lowering costs for working families, restoring women's reproductive freedom, protecting Social Security and Medicare, implementing climate action, and fighting for universal health care (as noted by the New York Post), would be sitting pretty with progressive support. Alas, politics is a bit like high school—with more subpoenas.

The fallout began when Jones decided to endorse the primary challenger to Rep. Jamaal Bowman, a move that didn't sit well with the PAC. In fact, the decision to cut ties was unanimous. Imagine a meeting where everyone agreed on something—that alone is headline news.

For those scratching their heads over why Jones would support the primary challenger to Bowman, it might help to know that Bowman is not only a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, but he also serves as vice chair for labor. The phrase "biting the hand that feeds you" comes to mind, but Jones would probably just argue he’s more into veganism.

Jones and Bowman have notably different views on Israel, a topic that has added fuel to their fiery relationship. Criticizing Bowman for accepting the Democratic Socialists of America’s endorsement and his stance on issues related to Israel and Hamas, Jones seemed to think expressing his own beliefs was worth the political fallout. As he stated, he has no regrets about standing up for what he believes in—if it hasn't worked out for him politically, at least he’s still good friends with George Latimer.

Of course, Jones didn’t stop there. The Working Families Party also revoked its endorsement of him. House Progressive Caucus Chairwoman Pramila Jayapal called Jones’ endorsement of Latimer 'horrific,' leading one to wonder if pumpkin spice and bad political endorsements equally horrify her. Similarly, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez found herself profoundly disappointed by Jones getting chummy with Latimer.

It's not all about hurt feelings, though. The PAC even went so far as to launch an ad campaign on behalf of Bowman, ensuring the public knew exactly which progressive got the metaphorical green new thumbs up. Jones, on the other hand, has found himself largely in political purgatory, kicking off what is shaping up to be one of the most entertainingly heated primaries between Bowman and Latimer.

The primary between Bowman and Latimer has become a flashpoint over U.S. policy on Israel, encapsulating broader debates within the Democratic Party (even more complex than picking between Beyoncé and Adele for best vocal performance). The Congressional Progressive Caucus PAC's aim was to steer clear of dragging progressive disunity into the public eye. Yet, here we are, ogling at the metaphorical train wreck.

Jones is up against Eli Becker in the primaries, another daunting task as Becker won re-election last year. But Jones remains unapologetic and dedicated to his platform, hoping his policy focus will return his political fortunes to their former glory. It’s an admirable effort considering his recent duel with the 'Squad.'

Despite high hopes, it seems Jones’ endorsement of a primary challenger against a fellow progressive was a bit like trying to join a rock band as a harmonica player: sure, you might bring unique skills to the table, but don’t be shocked when you’re not invited on the world tour.

As the primary battle heats up, all eyes will be on whether the progressive base will forgive, forget, or simply move on. Whatever happens, it’s safe to say there is indeed no 'i' in 'Squad'—except, apparently, in the eye-roll reactions of his once-steadfast allies.