American Israel Public Affairs Committee
Coverage of American Israel Public Affairs Committee in the Nexus archive.
- How Hakeem Jeffries is handling the most divisive issue in Democratic politics
House Democrats are divided over a proposed cut to Israel aid, with Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries avoiding public guidance as Rep. Thomas Massie's amendment sparks internal conflict. Jeffries has referenced J Street's opposition to the amendment during private meetings, reflecting shifting political dynamics within the party regarding U.S. support for Israel.
- Democrat Mallory McMorrow suspends her Michigan Senate campaign and scrambles the pivotal race
Mallory McMorrow suspended her Michigan Senate campaign, leaving a two-candidate primary between Haley Stevens and Abdul El-Sayed. The exit reshapes the race, with Stevens backed by party establishment and El-Sayed by progressive leaders. Outside spending supporting Stevens has impacted the contest.
- Democrat Mallory McMorrow suspends her Michigan Senate campaign and scrambles the pivotal race
Mallory McMorrow suspended her Michigan Senate campaign, leaving a primary contest between Haley Stevens and Abdul El-Sayed. The decision reshapes the race ahead of a televised debate and raises questions about Democratic unity, with Stevens backed by establishment groups and El-Sayed supported by progressive leaders.
- Sanders says billionaire-funded groups like Aipac threaten US democracy
Bernie Sanders criticized AIPAC and billionaire-funded super PACs for planning to spend heavily in Michigan's Senate race. He endorsed candidate Abdul El-Sayed, who opposes U.S. military aid to Israel and describes Israel's actions in Gaza as genocide.
- Top House Democrat welcomes primary winners who didn’t endorse him
Hakeem Jeffries, a top House Democrat, congratulated four New York congressional primary winners, two of whom had not endorsed him as a potential House speaker. The primaries highlighted Democratic Party divisions over Israel, with anti-Zionist candidates and pro-Palestine activists influencing outcomes. Jeffries praised the winners' focus on issues like affordability and far-right extremism despite internal challenges.
- A battle of narratives emerges as Mamdani-backed candidates sweep NYC primaries
Mamdani-backed candidates won multiple New York City primaries, with results framed as a pro-Palestine movement victory by some and a threat to Jewish community values by others. Key wins include Claire Valdez and Aber Kawas, with the latter poised to become the first Palestinian-American in the New York State Senate if re-elected in November.
- AP Exclusive: Sen. Van Hollen backs El-Sayed for Michigan Senate in break from Democratic leadership
Maryland Sen. Chris Van Hollen endorses Abdul El-Sayed in Michigan’s Democratic Senate primary, opposing party leadership. The race splits Democrats between El-Sayed, Rep. Haley Stevens, and state Sen. Mallory McMorrow, with El-Sayed positioned as a progressive candidate advocating Medicare for All and halting U.S. weapons transfers to Israel.
- Aipac rebuffed as Mamdani-backed candidates sweep NYC Democratic primaries
Three congressional candidates endorsed by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani won Democratic primaries, defeating opponents including an incumbent and a five-term representative. The victories highlighted divisions over Israel-Palestine policy, with one winner criticizing Israel's actions in Gaza while defeating an Aipac-backed candidate.
- New York sweep by Israel critics shines light on a fraught issue for Democrats
New York primary results highlighted candidates supported by Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who emphasized Palestinian issues, challenging Democratic establishment figures. The Israel-Palestinian conflict has become a divisive issue within the Democratic Party, influencing voter choices and party unity ahead of upcoming elections.
- New York sweep by Israel critics shines light on a fraught issue for Democrats
New York primary wins by candidates critical of Israel's policies highlight tensions within the Democratic Party over the Israel-Palestine conflict. The results reflect voter prioritization of candidates' stances on Gaza and challenge Democrats to unify ahead of midterms and the 2028 presidential race.
- New York sweep by Israel critics shines light on a fraught issue for Democrats
New York primary victories by candidates endorsed by Mayor Zohran Mamdani highlighted the role of Israel policy in Democratic Party divisions. The wins by Claire Valdez and others, supported by Mamdani, reflect a growing rift over the Gaza war's impact on the party's direction.
- Mamdani-backed socialist ousts Espaillat in NY-13
Darializa Avila Chevalier defeated five-term House member Rep. Adriano Espaillat in NY-13, marking a major win for the Democratic Socialists of America. The victory reflects growing voter support for outsiders challenging established politicians, with Avila Chevalier criticizing Espaillat for accepting donations from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee and real estate interests.
- Pelosi-backed Democrat loses after $10M flood of crypto, pro-Israel money
Adrian Boafo won a crowded Democratic primary in Maryland with over $10 million in outside spending from crypto and pro-Israel groups. He defeated Harry Dunn, a former Capitol Police officer endorsed by Nancy Pelosi, in a race for an open congressional seat left vacant by Steny Hoyer's retirement.
- Pelosi-backed Democrat loses after $10M flood of crypto, pro-Israel money
Adrian Boafo won a crowded Democratic primary in Maryland, supported by over $10 million in spending from crypto and pro-Israel groups. Harry Dunn, endorsed by Nancy Pelosi, lost the race despite his Capitol Police background and opposition to Trump.
- In New York’s primaries, progressives face the establishment, and a Kennedy scion seeks office
New York’s Democratic primaries feature progressive challenges to incumbents, including a Kennedy descendant seeking office amidst competitive races. Candidates backed by Mayor Zohran Mamdani face off against established figures like Reps. Dan Goldman and Adriano Espaillat.
- Maryland Democrats choose nominees for US House, including a successor for longtime Rep. Steny Hoyer
Maryland Democrats are selecting U.S. House nominees in key primaries, including a race to replace retiring Rep. Steny Hoyer. The primaries feature multiple candidates with differing platforms, a mail-in ballot error, and debates over Democratic priorities.
- Maryland Democrats choose nominees for US House, including a successor for longtime Rep. Steny Hoyer
Maryland Democrats are holding primaries to select U.S. House nominees, including a race to replace retiring Rep. Steny Hoyer. Candidates include Harry Dunn, a former police officer who defended the U.S. Capitol during the 2021 riot, and Adrian Boafo, a former Hoyer field director. The primaries also feature a competitive gubernatorial race and a ballot error incident involving mail-in ballots.
- Rep. Adriano Espaillat Was Slow to Help Mahmoud Khalil. It Could Cost Him His Seat.
Rep. Adriano Espaillat faced criticism for delaying a meeting with Mahmoud Khalil, a detained activist, as challenger Darializa Avila Chevalier highlighted his perceived inaction on ICE and pro-Israel ties. The primary race intensified with significant PAC funding, pitting Espaillat against Avila Chevalier and fracturing progressive New York Democrats.
- In New York's primaries, progressives face the establishment, and a Kennedy scion seeks office
New York's Democratic primaries feature progressive challenges against established incumbents, including Dan Goldman and Adriano Espaillat, who face candidates endorsed by Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Jack Schlossberg, a Kennedy family member, seeks a congressional seat in a competitive Manhattan district.
- New York Mayor Mamdani condemns continued killings in Gaza and Aipac
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani condemned the ongoing violence in Gaza, stating over 1,000 Palestinians have been killed since a ceasefire announcement. He criticized the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (Aipac) for supporting what he described as an unjust status quo and referenced the death of Al Jazeera journalist Ahmed Wishah killed in an Israeli strike.
- Florida man indicted for allegedly plotting mass shooting of Jewish employees at advocacy group
A Florida man was indicted for allegedly plotting to carry out a mass shooting targeting Jewish employees at the American Israel Public Affairs Committee. On Dec. 23, 2024, he attempted to execute the attack at the organization's office.
- Mamdani boosts congressional slate ahead of primary election
Mayor Zohran Mamdani is promoting his endorsed congressional candidates, including Brad Lander, Claire Valdez, and Darializa Avila Chevalier, who are challenging incumbents in New York's primary election. The rally, featuring Bernie Sanders, highlighted support for working-class issues and criticized groups like AIPAC and super PACs.
- Florida man indicted for allegedly plotting mass shooting targeting Jewish employees at advocacy organization
A Florida man was indicted for allegedly plotting a mass shooting targeting Jewish employees at a pro-Israel nonprofit organization. He was charged with an attempted hate crime, using a firearm during a crime of violence, and possessing a short-barreled rifle.
- 2026 NYC primary: Espaillat, Avila Chevalier dispute ICE, war, and Super PACs in Tuesday debate
Democratic candidates for New York’s 13th Congressional district debated topics including ICE abolition, wars in Iran and Gaza, and Super PAC donations. Incumbent Adriano Espaillat and challenger Darializa Avila Chevalier accused each other of accepting money from Super PACs and wealthy donors, while discussing their endorsements and stances on issues like ICE detainments and support for political figures.
- Once a Target of TrackAIPAC, Ro Khanna Gains Its Endorsement
Rep. Ro Khanna, a California lawmaker, has received an endorsement from TrackAIPAC after previously being targeted by the group for his legislative record. The endorsement followed his signing of the PEACE pledge, which rejects AIPAC funding and opposes military aid to countries committing human rights violations. TrackAIPAC is expanding its influence by endorsing candidates and pushing for Palestinian rights in Congress.
- AIPAC seeks assurances Iran deal 'preserves Israel's right to respond'
AIPAC, a pro-Israel lobbying group, expressed cautious support for President Trump's Iran deal framework, emphasizing the need to preserve Israel's right to respond to security threats. The group highlighted Congress's role in reviewing the agreement and called for addressing Iran's missile/drones programs and regional armed group support.
- Secretive super PAC funding is skyrocketing in primaries
A record $48 million has been spent on U.S. House and Senate primaries by super PACs that delay donor disclosure until after elections, according to a POLITICO analysis. These groups exploit FEC deadlines to raise unlimited funds without revealing donors during critical election periods, with spending surpassing previous cycles by more than double compared to 2024 and tenfold compared to 2018.
- Congress Is Trying to Permanently Integrate U.S. and Israeli Defense Tech
A provision in the National Defense Authorization Act (Section 224) seeks to permanently integrate U.S. and Israeli defense technologies, including artificial intelligence and autonomous systems. Lawmakers and experts warn this could be complex to reverse and may involve technologies used by Israel in conflict zones. The section faces opposition from some legislators, including Rep. Thomas Massie and Rep. Ro Khanna.
- NY-13 Congress primary: Espaillat and Avila Chevalier spar over ICE, campaign funding in radio debate
Incumbent U.S. Rep. Adriano Espaillat and challenger Darializa Avila Chevalier debated on a radio show, clashing over ICE policies, campaign funding, and foreign affairs. Both accused each other of accepting corporate donations, with Espaillat highlighting his legal actions against Trump-era immigration tactics and Avila Chevalier criticizing his ties to AIPAC-connected donors and real estate developers.
- Goldman and Lander spar hard over Israel
Rep. Dan Goldman and former Comptroller Brad Lander are locked in a competitive Democratic primary where their stances on Israel and AIPAC funding are central issues. Lander, endorsed by progressive groups, criticizes Goldman's ties to AIPAC, while Goldman claims they share progressive Zionist values and a two-state solution. Public polling shows Lander leading by over 30 points.
- Thomas Massie Loses His Seat in a Win for Trump — and AIPAC
Republican Rep. Thomas Massie lost his Kentucky primary to former Navy SEAL Ed Gallrein, with Donald Trump and AIPAC-backed groups playing a significant role in the race. The American Israel Public Affairs Committee's super PAC spent over $15.8 million opposing Massie. The overall spending reached $32 million, making it the most expensive House primary in history.
- Trump picks off Massie in Kentucky
President Donald Trump backed Ed Gallrein, a former Navy SEAL, who won against Representative Thomas Massie in Kentucky's 4th District primary. This victory cements Trump's grip on the GOP. Massie had been a hindrance to some of Trump's priorities and was targeted by outside spending.
- Who’s Spending in Your Congressional Election? We Tracked the Front Groups Fueling the 2026 Midterms.
A mysterious group spent $5 million on TV ads in the Michigan Senate primary, sparking suspicions of involvement by the American Israel Public Affairs Committee or its super PAC affiliate. The true source of the ad campaign may not be known for months due to Federal Election Commission rules. Front groups are proliferating in the 2026 election cycle, with various industries using loopholes to obscure their identity.
- Who’s Spending in Your Congressional Election? We Tracked the Front Groups Fueling the 2026 Midterms.
A mystery group spent $5 million on TV ads in the Michigan Senate primary, sparking suspicions of involvement by the American Israel Public Affairs Committee or its super PAC affiliate. The group's true source of funding may not be known for months due to Federal Election Commission rules. This is an example of how special interest groups are using loopholes to obscure their identity and influence elections.
- DNC rejects resolution condemning influence of pro-Israel Aipac lobby
The Democratic National Committee (DNC) rejected a resolution condemning the pro-Israel lobby group Aipac. The decision defers further Middle East policy resolutions to a working group, disappointing progressive Democrats.
- Unity tested: Democrats face off over Israel and AIPAC dark money during DNC meeting
Democrats face internal divisions over Israel's military actions and AIPAC's influence during the DNC meeting. Resolutions on military aid limits and Palestinian state recognition were debated, with polls showing declining support for Israel among Democrats. Criticism of Israel's actions and AIPAC's role highlights ongoing tensions within the party.
- DNC punts on the big Israel questions
The Democratic National Committee (DNC) rejected a resolution targeting AIPAC's influence and dark money in primaries, deferring decisions to a Middle East Working Group. This reflects ongoing internal debate over Israel policy and growing Democratic concerns about AIPAC's role in elections.
- DNC committee shoots down resolution condemning AIPAC
The Democratic National Committee (DNC) resolutions committee rejected a resolution condemning AIPAC's influence over dark money and corporate-backed spending in Democratic races. The vote occurred during the DNC's spring meeting in New Orleans.
- The DNC is meeting — and Israel is at the forefront once again
The Democratic National Committee (DNC) is facing internal divisions over Israel, with proposed resolutions addressing Palestinian state recognition, conditional military aid to Israel, and criticism of AIPAC's influence. Shifting public opinion among Democrats toward Israel has intensified debates within the party, highlighting tensions between pro-Israel factions and progressive activists.