What is AIPAC?
The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) is a lobbying organization that advocates for strong U.S.-Israel relations and pro-Israel policies in Congress. Founded in 1963, AIPAC is one of the most powerful and well-funded lobbying groups in Washington, spending over $126 million in the 2024 election cycle alone.
AIPAC was the largest PAC contributor to members of Congress in the 2023-2024 election cycle, funneling millions to lawmakers who approved military aid packages for Israel’s war in Gaza. Critics argue this creates undue influence over U.S. foreign policy.
AIPAC’s super PAC spent nearly $61 million in independent expenditures, largely opposing candidates deemed insufficiently supportive of Israel. Notable examples include spending $8.6 million to help defeat Rep. Cori Bush and $14.6 million against Rep. Jamaal Bowman, both vocal critics of Israeli policy.
Critics contend AIPAC’s lobbying discourages meaningful debate on Palestinian rights, U.S. military aid to Israel, and peaceful solutions to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Supporters counter that AIPAC represents legitimate advocacy for a key U.S. ally.
AIPAC funds both Democrats and Republicans, leading some to question whether this creates a political environment where criticism of Israeli government actions becomes politically risky for elected officials.
Unlike some other organizations advocating for foreign governments, AIPAC is not registered under the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA), which some critics argue should apply given its focus on a foreign nation’s interests.