Gavin Newsom's Stance on AIPAC Funding Amid Shifting Political Landscape

California Governor Gavin Newsom has publicly declared that he "never has and never will" accept funding from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), a statement that reflects a significant shift in his political positioning amid changing attitudes toward Israel within the Democratic Party.

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Historically, AIPAC has played a crucial role in American politics, particularly among Democrats. However, recent polling indicates a dramatic decline in support for Israel among Democrats, with figures dropping to single digits. This shift has prompted moderate Democrats, including Newsom, to distance themselves from AIPAC, especially in light of the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict and its implications for electoral politics.

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Gavin Newsom, who has served as California's governor since 2019, has a complex relationship with AIPAC. While he has previously been associated with the group, including a civic donation during his 2003 mayoral campaign, he has now positioned himself against accepting its support. Critics, including U.S. Representative Ro Khanna, have accused him of avoiding a clear stance on Israel's actions, suggesting that his reluctance to criticize Israel stems from a desire to appease AIPAC donors.

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In a recent interview, Newsom emphasized his commitment to not accepting AIPAC funding, stating, “Never have and never will.” He has also expressed his support for Israel while condemning Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's rhetoric regarding Palestinians. This nuanced stance has drawn both support and criticism, highlighting the challenges faced by Democratic leaders in addressing the Israel-Palestine conflict.

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Despite Newsom's declarations, he faces significant criticism from progressive factions within the Democratic Party. Critics argue that his refusal to label Israel's actions as genocide and his support for unconditional aid to Israel undermine his credibility. Cory Archibald, co-founder of the counter-AIPAC group Track AIPAC, remarked that Newsom's rejection of AIPAC funding is a notable development, suggesting it may become a pivotal issue in the 2028 presidential race.

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While Newsom has made clear statements about rejecting AIPAC funding, there remains a lack of clarity regarding his past affiliations and the implications of his current stance. Some sources indicate that his previous donations to AIPAC may complicate his narrative, while others highlight the broader context of shifting Democratic attitudes toward Israel.

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• “Never have and never will,” — Gavin Newsom, Governor of California

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• “He doesn’t want to offend the AIPAC donors,” — U.S. Representative Ro Khanna

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• “We will make AIPAC money the defining issue of the 2028 race. Watch.” — Cory Archibald, Co-founder of Track AIPAC

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As Newsom continues his political journey, his evolving stance on AIPAC funding and Israel may significantly influence his prospects in future elections, reflecting the broader transformations within the Democratic Party.

Times of Israel