New York Democratic Representative Ritchie Torres strongly criticized a profanity-laced speech delivered by fellow “Squad” member Representative Jamaal Bowman during a rally alongside Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Torres characterized Bowman’s remarks as “unhinged,” expressing disapproval over the use of strong language at the event.

“We are going to show f—ing AIPAC, the power of the motherf—ing South Bronx!” Bowman declared at the rally held on Saturday at St. Mary’s Park in Mott Haven. He defended his use of strong language, stating, “People ask me why I got a foul mouth. What am I supposed to do? You’re coming after me! You’re coming after my family! You’re coming after my children! I’m not supposed to fight back?”

Bowman’s remarks were delivered in response to perceived attacks and challenges he and his family have faced.

During the rally, Bowman further exclaimed, “We’re going to show them who the f— we are!” while energetically moving around the stage.

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Senator Bernie Sanders rallied in support of Bowman, underscoring their progressive backing as he trails his Democratic primary opponent, George Latimer, by a significant margin ahead of Tuesday’s election in New York’s 16th congressional district, encompassing parts of Westchester County and the Bronx.

Videos from the event also captured Ocasio-Cortez passionately addressing the crowd, at times banging the podium forcefully enough to topple her microphones. She spoke over the backdrop of sexually explicit lyrics from Cardi B’s song “Enough,” which played over the event’s sound system.

At another point, Bowman, wearing a yellow T-shirt with his sleeves rolled up, waved a wooden stool up and down on the Bronx stage, before leading the crowd in a chant of, “Cease-fire now, cease-fire now.” 

Bowman risks losing his seat amid divisions between progressives and moderates in the Democratic Party over the Israel-Hamas war. 

Latimer’s campaign has garnered support from prominent figures such as former Rep. Mondaire Jones of New York and Hillary Clinton.

Regarding his stance in the race, Ritchie Torres has refrained from officially endorsing either candidate. In a statement to Axios last week, Torres explained his general rule of not intervening against a fellow Congressional Democrat who has not opposed him.

“But Bowman’s unwarranted attack on my character might lead me to reconsider that rule. Stay tuned,” Torres remarked.