The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) is gearing up to launch its first ads against Rep. Jamaal Bowman in New York’s 16th Congressional District. As a member of the progressive “Squad,” Bowman has been a vocal advocate for policies such as a ceasefire in Gaza and Medicare for All. AIPAC’s super PAC, United Democracy Project, is expected to spend up to $25 million in an effort to defeat Bowman, making this the most expensive House primary in U.S. history.
Challenger George Latimer, who was recruited by AIPAC, has received significant financial support from the group, raising just under $1 million, with almost half of his total contributions coming from AIPAC in the final quarter of 2023. The primary election between Latimer and Bowman is set for June 25, with Latimer having raised more funds overall.
AIPAC had initially planned to spend at least $100 million this cycle to target members of the Squad, who have been critical of U.S. military support for Israel. However, after one of their top targets, Rep. Summer Lee, won her primary last week, AIPAC has distanced itself from that pledge. The lobby group had previously spent $5 million against Lee in 2022 but failed to recruit viable challengers for her this cycle.
Following Lee’s victory, AIPAC has shifted its focus to Bowman and other members of the Squad, including Rep. Cori Bush. The group is expected to spend at least $20 million in each race, with plans to target Reps. Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib as well. AIPAC’s efforts have drawn criticism from progressive groups like Justice Democrats, who see the group’s actions as an attempt to silence voices that challenge right-wing power.
Bowman’s unexpected victory over longtime AIPAC supporter Rep. Eliot Engel in 2020 prompted the group to become more directly involved in elections. Since then, AIPAC has aligned itself with far-right Republicans, endorsing over 100 GOP candidates during the 2022 cycle. Democratic candidates supported by AIPAC have also received donations from Republican donors, including those who have backed figures like Donald Trump and Ted Cruz.
The upcoming primary races involving members of the Squad are shaping up to be contentious battles, with AIPAC pouring significant resources into trying to unseat these progressive lawmakers. The clash between AIPAC-backed candidates and progressive incumbents highlights the ongoing struggle within the Democratic Party over issues related to foreign policy and military support for Israel.
As the primary elections draw near, the outcome of these races will not only impact the future of the Squad but also reflect broader tensions within the Democratic Party regarding its stance on Israel and foreign policy. The influence of groups like AIPAC in shaping electoral outcomes underscores the complex dynamics at play in American politics today.