Illinois voters recently participated in a series of Democratic primary elections where the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) played a significant role, achieving some wins but also facing notable setbacks.
A Mixed Bag for AIPAC
Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller defeated Jesse Jackson Jr. In the race for Illinois’ 2nd Congressional District, with support from $4.5 million from the AIPAC-connected group Affordable Chicago Now. In the 8th district, Melissa Bean prevailed over Junaid Ahmed, bolstered by over $4 million from AIPAC shell PACs Elect Chicago Women and Chicago Progressive Partnership.
However, AIPAC’s influence wasn’t universally successful. The organization spent roughly $5 million backing Chicago Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin in the 7th district, but she lost to Illinois state Rep. La Shawn Ford. The 9th district saw former Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss win, despite AIPAC’s efforts and spending on attack ads.
Shifting Strategies and Definitions of Victory
AIPAC’s involvement in the Illinois primaries prompted discussion about its tactics and the evolving political landscape. The group reportedly celebrated the loss of Palestinian American activist Kat Abughazaleh, who came in second in the 9th district race. AIPAC also spent money promoting Bushra Amiwala in the 9th district, hoping to draw votes away from Abughazaleh.
Daniel Biss, who defeated a crowded field in the 9th district, publicly opposed AIPAC’s influence, stating, “Everyone knows that that’s AIPAC’s money, but they’re hiding behind these new shell organizations to pretend otherwise.” He celebrated his victory as a rejection of AIPAC’s spending.
One centrist House Democrat reportedly told Axios, “I think it’s fair to say that Illinois made AIPAC the comeback kid.” However, the source also questions whether this assessment is accurate, noting that AIPAC spent $22 million in the state’s primaries to achieve only two wins out of four races.
Frequently Asked Questions
What races did AIPAC spend money on in Illinois?
AIPAC spent money in the 2nd, 7th, 8th and 9th Congressional District Democratic primaries.
Did AIPAC only support pro-Israel candidates?
No, AIPAC spent money attempting to defeat Daniel Biss in the 9th district, despite his not being considered “pro-Palestine.”
How much money did AIPAC spend in Illinois primaries?
AIPAC spent a total of roughly $22 million in the Illinois primaries.
As AIPAC continues to navigate a changing political climate, will its strategies and influence remain as potent as they once were?
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