US ‘Squad’ Rallies Against Pro-Israel PACs with Record Fundraising

In the aftermath of Israel’s intense military operation in Gaza, triggered by an attack from Hamas on October 7, progressive U.S. Congress members advocating for a ceasefire have witnessed a surge in campaign donations. This influx of support comes as they face significant opposition from pro-Israel PACs like the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), which is actively working to unseat them in the upcoming elections. These efforts have transformed their normally secure Democratic districts into highly contested political arenas.

The group known as the “squad,” comprising progressive House members, is particularly targeted by AIPAC, which has committed to spending millions to support their opponents in both Democratic primaries and the general election. This political battle underscores deep divisions within the Democratic Party regarding its stance on Israel and Palestine, and the influence of external groups on election outcomes.

Unlike previous election cycles, support for these progressives is growing among Arab American and Muslim communities, who are organizing in unprecedented numbers to ensure their representation and viewpoints are recognized in Congress.

Representative Jamaal Bowman, one of the squad members, highlighted the significance of this moment, attributing his record fundraising to the support from the Muslim community, which he feels has been marginalized in the political discourse surrounding the conflict.

Despite AIPAC’s claims of compatibility between progressive values and support for Israel, the group’s aggressive campaign tactics have raised questions about its influence and the broader implications for Democratic Party unity and policy positions on Israel and Palestine.

The situation presents an existential challenge for these progressive lawmakers, who are navigating the political landscape while advocating for a ceasefire in Gaza and facing substantial opposition funded by pro-Israel PACs. Their campaigns are closely monitored by progressive groups as they confront a well-financed opposition, signaling a contentious battle for the future direction of the Democratic Party and its foreign policy priorities.