Summary
The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) spent $12 million in Illinois Democratic primary elections but did not succeed in these contests. AIPAC financed campaigns for candidates in the 9th and 7th districts, but both candidates lost their races. The spending comes as the Democratic Party debates whether to adopt more progressive policies, with issues like Israel causing differing views among party members.
Key Facts
- AIPAC spent $12 million in Illinois Democratic primary elections.
- They allocated $7 million to support state Senator Laura Fine in the 9th District.
- An AIPAC-affiliated super PAC spent $5 million backing Chicago Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin in the 7th District.
- Both candidates supported by AIPAC lost their elections.
- Despite these losses, AIPAC-backed candidates won in other districts, including Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller and former representative Melissa Bean.
- The Democratic Party is currently divided on whether to lean more progressive or moderate, with Israel being a contentious issue.
- Recent polls indicate Democrats’ views of Israel have become more negative.
