AIPAC faces test of its power in Illinois primary as Democrats debate future of Israel relationship

AIPAC Steps Up Campaign Spending in Illinois Primary, Stirring Controversy

A high-stakes primary season in Illinois has become the latest battleground for the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), as the powerful advocacy organization intensifies its political spending amid growing tensions over U.S.-Israel relations and campaign finance transparency.

AIPAC has reserved at least $1.9 million in advertisements through its super PAC to support Melissa Conyears-Ervin, Chicago’s city treasurer, in the crowded March 17 primary to replace retiring Rep. Danny Davis. The organization’s aggressive spending in Illinois follows its controversial $2 million investment in a recent New Jersey special election primary, where AIPAC’s preferred candidate ultimately lost to progressive Analilia Mejia, who has been critical of Israel’s actions in Gaza.

Despite facing backlash from across the political spectrum after the New Jersey defeat, AIPAC remains undeterred. “We expect to be involved in dozens of races both in primaries and general elections this cycle,” said Patrick Dorton, spokesman for AIPAC’s affiliated super PAC, the United Democracy Project (UDP).

The organization’s increased political involvement comes at a critical moment as traditional bipartisan support for U.S. military assistance to Israel faces growing challenges from progressive Democrats concerned about the war in Gaza. AIPAC’s interventions in Democratic primaries aim to shore up pro-Israel candidates but risk further dividing the party.

In Illinois, campaign finance laws concerning super PACs have created a lack of transparency about funding sources. While UDP openly acknowledges its AIPAC affiliation, newly formed groups like Elect Chicago Women and Affordable Chicago Now aren’t required to disclose their financial backers until after the primary. Critics suspect these organizations may be AIPAC conduits, though the advocacy group has declined to confirm or deny any connection.

According to AdImpact, a nonpartisan ad-tracking service, UDP, Elect Chicago Women, and Affordable Chicago Now are three of the top four spenders on House race advertisements so far, collectively pouring almost $11 million into campaigns, with the majority flowing into Illinois races.

Notably, none of these organizations mention Israel in their campaign messaging. Instead, they focus on broader political issues—a tactic AIPAC-affiliated groups have employed previously. For example, UDP’s advertisements promote Conyears-Ervin by highlighting her commitment to lowering costs and protecting healthcare, rather than mentioning Middle East policy.

This strategy has fueled speculation and concern about AIPAC’s political influence. Supporters of Israel argue that critics are invoking antisemitic tropes about dual loyalty, while others maintain that the issue centers on campaign finance transparency rather than AIPAC specifically.

“I think the folks who are talking the most about AIPAC are seeking to demonize Israel and create a break in the U.S.-Israel relationship,” said Rep. Brad Schneider, a Democrat representing Illinois’ 10th district. “The problem is Citizens United and the decision to allow dark money. The problem is the rules. Let’s fix the rules.”

The controversy has spilled into campaign rhetoric, with candidates attacking each other over perceived connections to AIPAC. Four progressive candidates competing for different Illinois congressional seats jointly denounced the organization’s involvement in the state’s primaries during a February press conference.

Former New Jersey Congressman Tom Malinowski, who recently lost his race after being targeted by AIPAC spending, remains bitter about the experience. Though he describes himself as pro-Israel, he opposed unconditional assistance for the country—a position that drew AIPAC’s opposition. Malinowski has stated he won’t support any AIPAC-backed candidates this year.

While AIPAC has long been politically active, the organization significantly expanded its direct campaign spending during the 2022 midterms. Since then, it has spent more than $221 million through its traditional PAC and super PAC, according to Federal Election Commission filings.

The super PAC has primarily focused on Democratic primaries, spending at least $1 million supporting or opposing 18 candidates in the 2022 and 2024 cycles, with 16 of those being Democrats. In 2024, UDP’s largest investments targeted progressive incumbents, spending more than $13 million to help Rep. George Latimer defeat former Rep. Jamaal Bowman in New York’s 16th District, and $8.5 million opposing former Rep. Cori Bush, who lost her primary to Rep. Wesley Bell.

As the Illinois primary approaches, the expanding influence of AIPAC and questions about campaign finance transparency continue to reshape the political landscape, with implications that extend far beyond the Prairie State.