Recent events have brought a huge challenge to progressive Democrats, as pro-Israel super PACs have unleashed unprecedented financial resources to target and defeat prominent liberal figures in Congress. This summer, groups like the American Israel Public Affairs Committee’s super PAC poured $25 million into defeating Reps. Jamaal Bowman (D-N.Y.) and Cori Bush (D-Mo.), marking the most expensive House primaries ever.
Consequently, candidates more aligned with mainstream Democratic positions, such as George Latimer in New York and Wesley Bell in Missouri, are now poised to advance in these secure blue districts.
Sen. Bernie Sanders and other progressives express alarm over AIPAC’s influence, fearing long-term impacts on Congress
The staggering spending against Bowman and Bush, driven by their critical views on Israel’s handling of the Hamas conflict, has alarmed progressives. They are grappling with the realization that they lack an effective counter-strategy to the financial might of AIPAC and similar groups. The fear is that these organizations will use their proven tactics to target even more Democratic figures in future elections.
Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) expressed concern over AIPAC’s growing influence, noting their potential to intimidate members of Congress and impact their stance on critical issues. This new reality has prompted introspection among progressive leaders, including Sanders, who worry about the long-term implications of AIPAC’s strategy.
Despite some attempts to organize and fight back, such as advocating for campaign finance reform or enhancing existing progressive PACs, the disparity in financial resources remains a daunting obstacle. Progressives recognize the need for a more robust response but acknowledge that addressing this issue will be a complicated and prolonged battle.
