Fri Feb 06 03:20:00 UTC 2026: ### Headline: AIPAC Super PAC Spending Sparks Controversy in New Jersey Democratic Primary

The Story:

A super PAC linked to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), the United Democracy Project (UDP), is under scrutiny for spending $2.2 million targeting former US Representative Tom Malinowski in the lead-up to the New Jersey Democratic primary on April 16, 2026. This action is perceived as a warning to other candidates who may question unconditional US support for Israeli policies, particularly amidst growing Democratic dismay over the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Critics argue this intervention reveals AIPAC’s concern over shifting Democratic perspectives on funding for Israel. While not explicitly endorsing any candidate, the spending is viewed as a means of influencing the race and intimidating those who express reservations about unwavering support for Israel.

Key Points:

  • UDP, a super PAC linked to AIPAC, is spending $2.2 million to target former US Representative Tom Malinowski.
  • The spending aims to influence the New Jersey Democratic primary on April 16.
  • Critics see the move as an attempt to intimidate candidates questioning unconditional US support for Israel.
  • Malinowski has criticized AIPAC’s “dark-money” influence, stating he was not willing to “blindly support” any request from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
  • Similar strategies were used in the 2024 elections, with UDP spending approximately $35 million against progressive candidates who advocated for cutting aid to Israel, including $24 million spent against Representatives Jamaal Bowman and Cori Bush.
  • The advertising campaign against Malinowski focuses on domestic issues rather than Israel, such as his past stock trades and a vote supporting a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding bill.
  • Pro-Israel groups like J Street have condemned UDP’s spending, arguing it weakens bipartisan support and alienates younger generations.
  • AIPAC and UDP have amassed a $100 million war chest heading into 2026.

Critical Analysis: (Not Applicable as the provided context doesn’t reveal significant patterns or strategic depth.)

Key Takeaways:

  • AIPAC and its affiliated groups are actively investing significant resources to influence US elections and maintain unwavering support for Israeli policies.
  • Democratic candidates who express even moderate concerns about unconditional support for Israel may face substantial opposition from pro-Israel lobbying groups.
  • The focus on domestic issues in attack ads suggests a strategy to avoid directly addressing Israel, potentially due to the divisive nature of the topic.
  • The intervention could potentially backfire, increasing awareness and criticism of AIPAC’s influence in US politics.
  • The shifting viewpoints among Democrats on US support for Israel appears to be a significant factor driving AIPAC’s strategy.

Impact Analysis: (Not Applicable as the provided context doesn’t reveal significant patterns or strategic depth.)

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