The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) recently ignited a firestorm of criticism from within its own ranks and among mainstream Democrats following its substantial financial intervention in a special House election primary in New Jersey. With a shocking $2 million poured into the race, AIPAC aimed to defeat former Rep. Tom Malinowski, a moderate Democrat who has expressed reservations about unconditional U.S. aid to Israel.

Steve Schale, a veteran Democratic strategist, expressed his frustration, describing the situation as "maddening" and indicative of a broader problem. "It’s pissing people off," Schale stated, highlighting the tension brewing within the party.

Malinowski, who has yet to concede and currently trails his opponent, progressive organizer Analilia Mejia, by approximately 500 votes, has criticized AIPAC’s tactics. "They are now demanding 100 percent fealty," he commented, suggesting that AIPAC might prefer an anti-Israel progressive over a moderate Democrat who slightly diverges from their strict policies.

The election has drawn widespread attention, not just for its immediate implications but also as a precursor to the 2026 primary season. AIPAC's super PAC, Unite Democracy Project, plans to continue its involvement in Democratic primaries across the country, starting with Illinois in March.

Critics within the Democratic Party, such as Matt Bennett from the think tank Third Way, have labeled AIPAC’s intervention as “one of the greatest own-goals in American political history,” pointing to the potential damage to the moderate Democratic movement.

Even AIPAC's staunch allies have voiced concerns. Rep. Brad Schneider (D-Ill.), a long-time supporter of the group, acknowledged the unusual nature of AIPAC’s involvement in this primary. "It raised eyebrows this morning," Schneider admitted, worried about the possible election of a far-left candidate instead of a centrist.

The backlash has not only come from within the Democratic Party. Progressive factions have celebrated what they view as a misstep by AIPAC that could diminish its influence. Justice Democrats’ communications director, Usamah Andrabi, remarked that AIPAC’s spending might be becoming “a kiss of death” for its endorsed candidates.

As AIPAC prepares to influence upcoming primaries, the Democratic Party faces the challenge of navigating the impact of external funding on its internal dynamics. This episode in New Jersey serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and potential pitfalls of political endorsements and financial interventions in democratic processes.

CORRECTION: An earlier version of this story misstated the month in which Illinois holds its primaries.