AIPAC-linked PAC targets moderate US Democrat with new lobbying effort

A Super PAC Linked to AIPAC Spends $2.2M on NJ Democrat Candidate

Washington, DC - The United Democracy Project (UDP), a super PAC linked to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), has made its first major investment in the 2026 US midterm elections. UDP is spending $2.2 million on former US Representative Tom Malinowski in advance of the Democratic primary in New Jersey.

Malinowski, who is running for re-election in a suburban district considered increasingly Democratic-leaning, had previously expressed tepid support for unconditional US military aid to Israel during the Gaza conflict. The spending by UDP comes as polls have shown growing dissatisfaction among Democratic voters with unwavering US support for Israel.

Critics argue that UDP’s strategy is aimed at intimidating candidates who question unconditional US support for Israeli policies. Sadaf Jaffer, a former member of the New Jersey General Assembly, believes that UDP’s actions demonstrate their concern about shifting perspectives on funding for Israel and their desire to keep moderate Democrats in office.

UDP has not explicitly endorsed Malinowski’s opponent, Tehesha Way, but has focused its advertising efforts on domestic issues such as Malinowski’s past stock trades and his 2019 vote in support of a Department of Homeland Security funding bill. The campaign against Malinowski does not specifically mention Israel, instead using more general messaging.

Justice Democrats communications director Usamah Andrabi has criticized UDP’s approach, noting that AIPAC had previously endorsed Malinowski despite his past votes on DHS funding. Malinowski received over $378,000 from pro-Israel groups during his previous congressional campaigns.

The special election in New Jersey is scheduled for April 16.

Source: Al Jazeera