AIPAC Spent Record $45.2M in 2024 Elections, Influencing Congress

The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) and its affiliated super PACs spent a record $45.2 million during the 2024 elections, making it the largest single-issue lobbying group in U.S. history, according to a new report. The funds were directed toward 349 senators and House members, accounting for 65% of Congress, with significant contributions to both Republican and Democratic leaders.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Republican, received at least $654,000, while House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, a Democrat, received $933,000. AIPAC specifically targeted progressive Democrats Cori Bush of Missouri and Jamaal Bowman of New York, spending $20 million to back their primary opponents, Wesley Bell and George Latimer, respectively. Both Bush and Bowman, who had called for a ceasefire in Gaza, were unseated.

The lobbying group’s spending marked a dramatic increase from its $13 million contributions in 2022. Analysts attribute the surge to growing opposition to Israel’s military actions in Gaza, which have sparked global criticism and calls for a ceasefire. AIPAC-backed candidates generally oppose such measures, aligning with the U.S. government’s continued support for Israel.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant face international war crimes charges, alongside Hamas military leader Mohammed Deif. Despite these allegations, Israel maintains strong bipartisan support in Congress, bolstered by AIPAC’s influence. The report highlights the growing power of lobbying groups in shaping U.S. foreign policy and electoral outcomes.