Why is AIPAC Pouring Money Into a Congressional Race in Maryland?
Introduction:
The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) has been known for its involvement in political races, particularly targeting progressive candidates. However, their recent financial support for former Capitol Police officer Harry Dunn in a Maryland congressional race has raised questions about their motives. Dunn’s opponent, state Sen. Sarah Elfreth, has not taken a strong stance on Israel, making AIPAC’s involvement puzzling.
AIPAC’s Financial Support:
AIPAC’s super PAC, United Democracy Project, has injected $4.1 million into the race to support Elfreth, despite neither candidate being vocal about Israel. While Dunn has raised more individual campaign contributions, AIPAC’s support has given Elfreth a significant advantage. Elfreth has distanced herself from AIPAC’s backing and claimed to be unaware of their involvement.
Unusual Donors:
Elfreth’s campaign has also received support from donors who have previously contributed to far-right Republicans, including former President Donald Trump. At least five of these donors are registered Republicans themselves. Additionally, over 100 of Elfreth’s donors have given substantial amounts to AIPAC’s political action committees, totaling over $2.8 million.
Dunn’s Criticism:
Dunn’s campaign released an ad criticizing Elfreth for aligning with far-right Republicans. He called on other candidates to condemn the outside spending and referred to it as “dark money” funded by MAGA Republicans. Dunn believes that accepting this support condones AIPAC’s actions, including endorsing candidates who voted against the 2020 presidential election results.
Elfreth’s Red Box:
Elfreth’s campaign had a red box on its website, a common tactic to encourage outside spending without violating coordination rules with super PACs. The box provided material that outside PACs could use in their communications. Elfreth removed the red box from her website, suggesting that a teacher’s union might have used it to support her.
AIPAC’s Motives:
It remains unclear why AIPAC has involved itself in this race. Both candidates expressed support for efforts to condition aid to Israel, and Dunn has been supportive of Israel’s right to defend itself. A spokesperson for United Democracy Project stated that they were not concerned about Dunn’s position on Israel but rather supported Elfreth due to her stance on other issues such as abortion rights, climate change, and domestic violence.
Similar Platforms:
Interestingly, both Dunn and Elfreth share similar platforms, advocating for abortion rights, strengthening voting rights, environmental protection, and working towards Medicare for All. Despite their similarities, AIPAC has chosen to support Elfreth over other candidates they deem “anti-Israel.”
Conclusion:
AIPAC’s involvement in the Maryland congressional race between Harry Dunn and Sarah Elfreth raises questions about their motives. Neither candidate has been outspoken about Israel, yet AIPAC’s super PAC has poured millions into supporting Elfreth. The unusual donors supporting Elfreth and the removal of a red box from her campaign website add further intrigue to the situation. While AIPAC claims to support Elfreth based on her positions on other issues, the true reasons behind their involvement remain unclear.
