Progressive Democrats Turn Against AIPAC, Labeling the Lobby Unwelcome

According to the commentary, AIPAC’s historic role of supporting candidates across the aisle has shifted dramatically as progressive Democrats label the organization a corrupt, billionaire-funded force. Tweets from Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez allege that AIPAC spent $30 million to defeat Abdul El-Sayed in a primary and plan to pour tens of millions into the general election, framing this as an assault on democratic norms.

The author contends that AIPAC’s spending is modest relative to giants like the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the National Association of Realtors, and Amazon, and that Israel does not control American politics. Critics, however, argue that “AIPAC” and “Israel” have become coded insults for Jewish influence, a view echoed by supporters such as Fred Guttenberg and Ari Fleischer who defend the lobby’s legitimacy. The piece highlights the broader tension within the Democratic Party over fundraising, foreign-policy positions, and the perception of Jewish voters, suggesting a deepening rift that could affect upcoming elections.