Moderate US Democrat returns AIPAC donations due to associations with Netanyahu.

A prominent U.S. lawmaker has made the significant decision to return donations from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), underscoring the evolving dynamics of support for pro-Israel lobbying within the Democratic Party. Congressman Seth Moulton announced his intentions on Thursday, distancing himself from the group due to its alignment with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s administration.
Moulton, who has positioned himself as a centrist Democrat with a long-standing commitment to Israel, is currently preparing to challenge progressive Senator Ed Markey in the upcoming Democratic primaries. His recent choice signals a growing concern among Democrats regarding AIPAC’s influence, especially following the troubling situation in Gaza, which has sparked widespread condemnation from various global humanitarian organizations.
Historically, AIPAC has wielded considerable influence by mobilizing financial resources and political connections to advocate for unwavering support of Israel. In recent years, however, the organization’s alignment with far-right positions and its backing of candidates who celebrate controversial actions, including those that have led to humanitarian crises, has prompted intense scrutiny.
During his announcement, Moulton stated, “In recent years, AIPAC has aligned itself too closely with Prime Minister [Benjamin] Netanyahu’s government… I’m a friend of Israel, but not of its current government.” His return of donations marks a significant shift, reflecting an increasing willingness among Democrats to challenge traditional alliances in light of changing public sentiment regarding the Israeli government’s policies.
In response to the current tide of criticism surrounding Israel’s actions in Gaza, AIPAC has witnessed a notable decline in its support among Democratic voters. Recent polling from the Pew Research Center indicates that only 18 percent of Democrats view the Israeli government favorably, a stark contrast to previous years. This shift has led to an environment where backing from AIPAC is viewed as politically precarious for many candidates.
The group has faced comparisons to the National Rifle Association (NRA), as both organizations have seen a transformation in their political standing among Democrats. Activists from the progressive movement, such as the Justice Democrats, argue that AIPAC’s influence is diminishing, framing it as a “toxic pariah” within the party as they strive to reshape Democratic allegiance and policy.
Despite the criticisms, AIPAC maintains its stance that it operates independently, a claim challenged by many. Its close ties to Israeli officials and proactive trips for U.S. lawmakers to Israel reflect a strong alignment with Israeli government perspectives, complicating its role in U.S. politics.
As the Democratic Party continues to grapple with its internal debates about foreign policy and Israel, the upcoming midterm elections may further illuminate the shifting allegiances within the party. It remains to be seen how AIPAC will navigate its relationship with a Democratic base increasingly questioning long-standing support for Israeli policies.
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