Key facts
- AIPAC's influence is a significant factor in New York City Democratic primaries.
- Rep. Dan Goldman faces criticism from challenger Brad Lander over his ties to AIPAC.
- Lander has described Israel's actions in Gaza as 'genocide' and vowed not to accept AIPAC funding.
- Goldman contends Lander's rhetoric is a 'dog whistle' and harmful to the Jewish community.
- Concerns have been raised that criticism of AIPAC could devolve into antisemitism.
The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), a prominent pro-Israel advocacy group, is casting a significant shadow over New York's Democratic primaries, even without direct financial involvement in key races. The group's influence and the broader debate surrounding support for Israel have become central campaign issues, particularly in the high-stakes primary contest between Rep. Dan Goldman and challenger Brad Lander.
Lander has made criticizing Goldman's ties to AIPAC and his voting record on military aid to Israel a cornerstone of his campaign. He has vowed not to accept funding from AIPAC and has described Israel's actions in Gaza as a "genocide." This strategy aims to mobilize the progressive base within the Democratic Party.
Goldman, in turn, has pushed back against Lander's rhetoric, calling it a "dog whistle" and arguing that it is divisive and potentially harmful to the Jewish community. He has attempted to frame himself and Lander as similar "progressive Zionists" and has shifted focus to domestic issues, while also returning donations from AIPAC. He acknowledged that the endorsement might be hurting him in the race.
Concerns have been voiced by various figures, including Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Halie Soifer, CEO of the Jewish Democratic Council of America, that the intense criticism of AIPAC and the "Israel lobby" could dangerously blur into antisemitism. David Greenfield, a former New York City Council member, described the scrutiny as "irrational and unfair."
While Lander acknowledges there is no direct evidence of AIPAC super PACs funding campaigns in the current races, he points to donations from AIPAC supporters and joint fundraising committees benefiting Goldman. The debate over AIPAC's role and its impact on Democratic primaries is a prominent feature, with similar tactics being employed in other races, such as the contest to replace Rep. Nydia Velázquez.