AIPAC backs candidates in Democratic primaries

Democratic candidates challenging Rep. Steny Hoyer’s preferred successor in Maryland’s 5th District have criticized their opponents for accepting support from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee. ” Prince George’s County legislator Wala Blegay stated that voters are connecting the war in Iran to AIPAC.

The criticism extends beyond the Maryland race. In Michigan, Rep. Haley Stevens’s Senate campaign has encountered resistance tied to past AIPAC assistance. In Philadelphia, the 314 Action Fund reported that its endorsement of Ala Stanford became a liability after media reports linked the group to an AIPAC-affiliated donor.

Maryland race developments Boafo received condemnation from other Democrats after an AIPAC campaign committee backed his candidacy. The 314 Action Fund, which supports candidates with scientific backgrounds, said it had not accepted contributions from AIPAC or its affiliates in two years.

Executive director Erik Polyak stated that opponents are labeling any outside spending as AIPAC money. A poll in Pennsylvania’s 3rd District showed the shift in voter perception. Between April 15 and April 20, no respondents mentioned AIPAC when asked about Stanford.

By April 30 to May 2, 39 percent named AIPAC or Israel as a negative association.

primary Stevens received early support from AIPAC in 2021 and later recorded a video thanking the group for directing $5 million in assistance. In the current Senate race, the Detroit News reported that donors are routing contributions through AIPAC’s Democracy Engine portal.

During a Democratic debate, Stevens responded to a question about the support by discussing campaign finance reform. Andy Levin, who lost to Stevens in 2022, said AIPAC’s image has worsened. He stated that voters now view the group’s spending with skepticism.

Democratic Majority for Israel president Brian Romick said the organization focuses on winning races and discussing issues voters care about, such as affordability.