AIPAC Faces Test of Power in Illinois Primary as Democrats Debate Israel Relationship

The powerful pro-Israel advocacy group is spending heavily in a crowded Democratic primary, sparking debate over its influence.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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A crowded Democratic primary season in Illinois is shaping up as the next test for the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), a powerful advocacy organization that's generating fresh turmoil over the Democratic Party's relationship to Israel and the role of undisclosed campaign cash in this year's midterm elections. AIPAC has reserved at least $1.9 million in advertisements through its super PAC to boost Chicago City Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin in the race to replace retiring Rep. Danny Davis.

Why it matters

AIPAC's aggressive spending in Democratic primaries, including a recent effort that backfired in New Jersey, is fueling criticism from progressives who see it as undermining the party's growing skepticism of the U.S.-Israel relationship. The debate over AIPAC's influence has become a flashpoint in Illinois, a state known for its bare-knuckled brand of politics.

The details

Other organizations that critics believe are tied to AIPAC are also spending heavily in Illinois, a source of bitterness and recriminations. Campaign finance laws make it nearly impossible to ascertain who is behind much of the money being spent. AIPAC-affiliated groups have used a strategy of avoiding mention of Israel in their campaign messaging, instead promoting candidates on issues like healthcare and cost of living. This has contributed to speculation and angst about AIPAC's influence in politics, with some candidates condemning the organization's role.

  • AIPAC put almost $2 million into a recent Democratic primary for a special election in New Jersey.
  • The Illinois primary is scheduled for March 17, 2026.

The players

American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC)

A powerful advocacy organization that lobbies for U.S. support for Israel. AIPAC has reserved at least $1.9 million in advertisements through its super PAC in the Illinois primary race.

Melissa Conyears-Ervin

The Chicago City Treasurer, who AIPAC's super PAC is supporting in the race to replace retiring Rep. Danny Davis.

Tom Malinowski

A former congressman who narrowly lost to progressive candidate Analilia Mejia in a recent Democratic primary in New Jersey, an effort that's widely considered to have backfired for AIPAC.

Rep. Brad Schneider

A Democratic congressman from Illinois' 10th district and co-chair of the Congressional Jewish Caucus, who says the focus on AIPAC is misplaced and the real problem is Citizens United and dark money in politics.

Analilia Mejia

The progressive candidate who defeated Tom Malinowski in the New Jersey Democratic primary, and has been outspoken in criticism of Israel.

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What they’re saying

“We expect to be involved in dozens of races both in primaries and general elections this cycle.”

— Patrick Dorton, Spokesman for AIPAC's affiliated super PAC, the United Democracy Project (ksgf.com)

“I think the folks who are talking the most about AIPAC are seeking to demonize Israel and create a break in the U.S.-Israel relationship.”

— Rep. Brad Schneider, Democratic congressman from Illinois' 10th district and co-chair of the Congressional Jewish Caucus (ksgf.com)

“Obviously, we were going to talk about Israel and Gaza in the campaign because many voters would be asking questions about it. But I wanted those discussions to be about the substance, not colored by baggage of endorsements from groups that are controversial now.”

— Tom Malinowski, Former congressman (ksgf.com)

What’s next

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The takeaway

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