A coalition of progressive groups is pressuring U.S. President Joe Biden and Democratic Party officials to reject endorsements or contributions from a pro-Israel group and its associated super PACs.
The “Reject AIPAC” coalition, comprising Justice Democrats and the Democratic Socialists of America, is targeting the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) and its affiliates, which have already poured millions into the 2024 U.S. election cycle.
This push mirrors a growing movement within the Democratic Party opposing Biden‘s pro-Israel stance. Recent Israeli attacks on Gaza, claiming over 31,000 lives according to Gaza health officials, have fueled criticism and humanitarian concerns.
In response to Hamas attacks on October 7th, which killed 1,200, Israel initiated military action. Notably, Biden’s support for Israel has affected his electoral performance, as seen in the Minnesota and Michigan Democratic primaries where “uncommitted” delegates won.
Ashik Siddique of the Democratic Socialists of America remarked, “The coalition has recognized the destructive influence of AIPAC.” The coalition called on the Democratic Party to shun AIPAC’s support, citing its ties to Republican donors.
AIPAC maintains that its sole criterion for evaluating candidates is their stance on the U.S.-Israel relationship.
Biden’s campaign and the Democratic National Committee have not responded to these calls. Key donors to AIPAC’s super PAC, the United Democracy Project (UDP), include the Marcus Foundation and Elliott Investment Management, which also support Republican interests. UDP also receives Democratic-aligned contributions.
Over the past 34 years, Biden has been the top beneficiary of pro-Israel lobby support, receiving over $5.2 million. AIPAC raised $24.8 million from January 2023 to January 2024, while UDP raised $46.1 million during that period.
UDP spent $4.6 million against California Democrat Dave Min during the Super Tuesday primary and is now focusing on the Illinois race, spending $268,000 against activist Kina Collins in the March 19 Democratic primary for Illinois’ 7th Congressional District.
