In Michigan, a fiercely contested Democratic Senate primary is unfolding, seen as a reflection of the influence of money in politics, the impact of the pro-Israel lobby, and the direction of U.S.-Israel relations within the party. Congresswoman Haley Stevens, a four-term incumbent, is facing off against Abdul El-Sayed, a progressive public health official supported by Senator Bernie Sanders. While the candidates have sparred over healthcare and immigration policies, the focus has shifted to campaign financing and foreign affairs.
Notably, over $60 million has been poured into supporting Stevens, setting a new record for a Democratic primary election. A significant portion of this funding, exceeding $30 million, originates from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) and its affiliated entities, highlighting the lobby’s substantial financial backing in this race.