In a strategic move poised to reshape the Democratic Party's stance on Israel, the Democratic Majority for Israel PAC (DMFI) has thrown its support behind 11 House candidates in the upcoming Democratic primaries. This decision underscores the growing tension within the party regarding its policy towards Israel, especially given the recent military operations in Gaza which have sparked significant debate among Democrats.

The DMFI, established in 2019, focuses exclusively on bolstering pro-Israel Democrats and is part of a broader effort to sway party perspectives on this pivotal issue. Their endorsements span across six key battlegrounds and five additional races in reliably Democratic districts, indicating a targeted approach to influence outcomes in both competitive and safe seats.

In Colorado, DMFI favors moderate Shannon Bird over progressive Manny Rutinel, highlighting a strategic preference for centrist candidates in swing districts. Similarly, in New York, Cait Conley receives backing in her bid to unseat Rep. Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.) in a narrowly divided district. Texas's newly drawn, red-leaning seat sees DMFI endorsing Johnny Garcia, a clear nod towards candidates they believe can appeal across the aisle.

The group's influence extends to Pennsylvania, where it supports Scranton Mayor Paige Cognetti and former TV anchor Janelle Stelson in their campaigns against Republican incumbents. Additionally, in Virginia, former Rep. Elaine Luria has secured DMFI's endorsement as she prepares to challenge Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-Va.).

DMFI's endorsements are not limited to battleground states; they are also playing a significant role in crowded primaries in safe Democratic seats. These include Maryland's Adrian Boafo, Michigan's Jeremy Moss, and New Hampshire's Maura Sullivan, all stepping into races to replace outgoing Democrats.

Former Rep. Kathy Manning, a board member of DMFI, emphasized the broad American support for Israel's right to exist as a Jewish state and highlighted the strategic necessity of garnering cross-party support in competitive districts.

While DMFI's activities often overlap with those of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), the latter supports candidates from both parties and has faced criticism from progressive Democrats. In contrast, DMFI's primary goal is to secure a Democratic majority in Congress. In 2024, DMFI spent approximately $4.3 million, and plans are underway to increase this investment in the 2026 election cycle.

In Illinois, DMFI's alignment with AIPAC is evident as both organizations back former Rep. Melissa Bean and Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller in their respective primaries. This cooperation underscores the significant influence these pro-Israel groups wield in shaping the Democratic primaries.

The pro-Israel stance of DMFI and similar groups continues to be a defining factor in the Democratic primaries, reflecting the complex and often contentious role of foreign policy issues in domestic electoral politics. As the 2026 primaries approach, the impact of these endorsements on the Democratic Party's platform and electoral successes will be closely watched.