AIPAC's Pro-Israel Donors Rally Behind Chicago Candidate Who Opposed Gaza Ceasefire
The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) is backing a candidate in the Democratic primary for Illinois' 8th congressional district, despite their history of opposing pro-Palestinian stances. Jason Friedman, one of 18 candidates vying to replace Rep. Danny Davis, has pulled ahead in fundraising with donations totaling over $1.5 million.
Friedman's campaign received a significant influx of funds from major AIPAC donors, including the American Israel Public Affairs Committee PAC and its super PAC, United Democracy Project. The two groups spent more than $100 million on elections last year and ousted two leading critics of Israel from Congress. Friedman has not made Israel a part of his campaign platform, but he has been endorsed by pro-Israel organizations.
At least 17 Friedman donors have given to the United Democracy Project, with contributions totaling over $1.6 million. Those who have donated include gaming executive Greg Carlin, investor Tony Davis, and attorney Steven Lavin. The candidate's fundraising boost has also come from the finance and real estate industries, where just under a quarter of his donors work.
Critics argue that accepting funds from AIPAC donors who support Israel's actions in Gaza, including alleged genocide, raises questions about Friedman's stance on the issue. Former Illinois congresswoman Marie Newman stated, "If you're taking money from people who are supporting a far right-wing government that is executing a genocide, what does that say about you?"
Friedman's campaign has not responded to requests for comment, but his fundraising boost has raised concerns among some Democrats in Chicago. The city recently passed a resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, with Mayor Brandon Johnson casting the tie-breaking vote.
As the election approaches, Friedman is running largely on taking on President Donald Trump on issues from health care to education and the economy. His campaign website lists support for strong unions, access to education, reducing gun violence, and job training and support.
Meanwhile, other candidates in the race have taken a more progressive stance on Israel-Palestine issues. Gun violence activist Kina Collins is running against Davis and has received endorsements from several pro-Palestinian groups.
The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) is backing a candidate in the Democratic primary for Illinois' 8th congressional district, despite their history of opposing pro-Palestinian stances. Jason Friedman, one of 18 candidates vying to replace Rep. Danny Davis, has pulled ahead in fundraising with donations totaling over $1.5 million.
Friedman's campaign received a significant influx of funds from major AIPAC donors, including the American Israel Public Affairs Committee PAC and its super PAC, United Democracy Project. The two groups spent more than $100 million on elections last year and ousted two leading critics of Israel from Congress. Friedman has not made Israel a part of his campaign platform, but he has been endorsed by pro-Israel organizations.
At least 17 Friedman donors have given to the United Democracy Project, with contributions totaling over $1.6 million. Those who have donated include gaming executive Greg Carlin, investor Tony Davis, and attorney Steven Lavin. The candidate's fundraising boost has also come from the finance and real estate industries, where just under a quarter of his donors work.
Critics argue that accepting funds from AIPAC donors who support Israel's actions in Gaza, including alleged genocide, raises questions about Friedman's stance on the issue. Former Illinois congresswoman Marie Newman stated, "If you're taking money from people who are supporting a far right-wing government that is executing a genocide, what does that say about you?"
Friedman's campaign has not responded to requests for comment, but his fundraising boost has raised concerns among some Democrats in Chicago. The city recently passed a resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, with Mayor Brandon Johnson casting the tie-breaking vote.
As the election approaches, Friedman is running largely on taking on President Donald Trump on issues from health care to education and the economy. His campaign website lists support for strong unions, access to education, reducing gun violence, and job training and support.
Meanwhile, other candidates in the race have taken a more progressive stance on Israel-Palestine issues. Gun violence activist Kina Collins is running against Davis and has received endorsements from several pro-Palestinian groups.