Jamaal Bowman faces a tough fight in the most expensive Democratic House primary in history, with the pro-Israel lobby spending millions to unseat him. Polls suggest a close race, with Bowman’s internal polling showing him ahead by just 1 percentage point.
Outside groups, led by AIPAC, have poured $23 million into the race, aiming to push Bowman out of Congress. AIPAC’s significant funding has fueled a wave of attack ads against Bowman, turning the race into a battle over the lobby’s influence on progressive voices.
This race marks a pivotal test for AIPAC’s new strategy, focusing on direct campaign spending to shape election outcomes. As Democratic leaders have been less vocal in supporting progressive incumbents against AIPAC’s onslaught, the party’s dynamics have shifted significantly.
Key Democratic figures, including Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, have endorsed Bowman but have also accepted substantial donations from AIPAC. This has raised questions about their commitment to protecting progressive candidates in the face of powerful lobbying interests.