Aipac: The Pro-Israel Organization Set to Invest Millions in US Elections

In the upcoming 2024 election, pro-Israel groups, led by the powerful American Israel Public Affairs Committee (Aipac), are gearing up to spend tens of millions of dollars against congressional candidates, primarily Democrats, whom they believe are not supportive enough of Israel. Aipac and other lobby groups have been recruiting and supporting challengers to lawmakers and candidates, especially targeting members of the Squad, a group of progressive representatives vocal in their criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza.

Aipac, originally founded in an attempt to manage political fallout from a massacre in 1953, has evolved into a major force in Washington politics. However, its unwavering support for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has led to criticism and accusations of being an “anti-Israel lobby.” In response to shifting public opinion on Israel, Aipac has launched a super PAC, the United Democracy Project (UDP), to directly support political campaigns for the first time in its history.

Other pro-Israel groups, such as the Democratic Majority For Israel (DMFI) and J Street, are also working to influence the upcoming election. The UDP has raised over $49 million so far, with major donors including Republicans seeking to influence Democratic primaries. The present war in Gaza has further complicated the equation, with rising sympathy for Palestinians within the Democratic party making Aipac’s financial backing a potential liability for some candidates.

As the 2024 election approaches, the influence of pro-Israel groups on US politics and the ongoing debate over US support for Israel will be closely watched. The battle for congressional seats and the impact of these lobby groups on candidates critical of Israel will be a key issue in the upcoming election cycle.