In a notable development for Democratic congressional primaries in the Chicago area, candidates are grappling with the influence of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) amid shifting perspectives on U.S. support for Israel. Jeff Cohen, an economist and candidate for the 9th Congressional District, recently experienced firsthand the complexities surrounding AIPAC’s involvement when he met with a representative from the lobbying group. Cohen expressed an openness to AIPAC’s potential support but emphasized his desire for increased scrutiny regarding U.S. military aid to Israel, particularly in light of ongoing humanitarian concerns in Gaza. Following their meeting, Cohen did not receive further communication from AIPAC, prompting him to notice a surge in contributions to his rival, who favors unconditioned military support for Israel.
AIPAC’s spending strategy has been significant, allocating approximately $13.7 million to preferred candidates in the upcoming Democratic primaries. This financial backing has not gone unnoticed, as a recent WBEZ survey revealed that many candidates are increasingly aware of the organization’s firm stance against conditional military aid. AIPAC’s involvement has raised questions among voters, particularly as more Democrats advocate for the promotion of human rights in Gaza.
The group has adopted a more covert approach in its political activities, channeling funds through newly created political action committees that obscure direct connections to AIPAC. Veterans of political strategy, including former Obama advisor David Axelrod, suggest that AIPAC is intentionally downplaying its involvement due to the heightened sensitivity surrounding U.S. policies toward Israel and its actions in Gaza.
Candidates affiliated with AIPAC include Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller, Chicago City Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin, former U.S. Rep. Melissa Bean, and state Sen. Laura Fine. These individuals have received substantial funds from AIPAC donors, with Miller, for instance, reporting a remarkable 72% of her campaign funds have come from AIPAC-related sources. However, candidates have often framed these contributions as independent from AIPAC influence, a narrative that is increasingly scrutinized by voters.
The complexity of AIPAC’s involvement has become a hot-button issue, especially in districts where concerns about human rights and military aid are prevalent. Prominent figures like Illinois Governor JB Pritzker have criticized AIPAC’s direction, with arguments suggesting that it has aligned too closely with right-wing politics, particularly in the wake of current events in Israel and Gaza.
As these dynamics unfold, the race remains competitive, reflecting broader national conversations regarding Israel’s role in U.S. foreign policy and local grassroots movements advocating for change. Candidates’ positions on these issues could significantly impact their chances as they head toward the March 17 primaries, with many asserting a commitment to representing the voices of a diverse electorate deeply concerned about the humanitarian implications of U.S. support for Israel.