Advertising Surge Turns Michigan Senate Primary Into Israel-Aid Battleground

Since early May, outside groups have poured nearly $50 million into television and digital ads aimed at boosting Stevens and attacking El-Sayed. More than $25 million of that spending comes from the super-PAC linked to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). Democratic-aligned groups supporting the party establishment have also contributed heavily to Stevens’ campaign.

Time Magazine

The race has become a focal point for the broader shift within the Democratic Party after the war in Gaza. Michigan, home to the nation’s largest Arab-American population, has seen heightened activism, including the “uncommitted” movement that protested former President Joe Biden’s handling of the conflict. The candidates’ divergent stances on U.S. support for Israel now dominate campaign discourse.

Time Magazine

Stevens defends continued U.S. military assistance to Israel while advocating a two-state solution, positioning herself within the Democratic mainstream prior to the Gaza war. In contrast, El-Sayed has emerged as one of the most outspoken Democratic critics of Israel, labeling its actions in Gaza as genocide and calling for an end to American military aid.

Time Magazine

AIPAC’s financial involvement has turned the super-PAC into a lightning rod, intensifying scrutiny of outside money in the primary. The influx of pro-Israel advertising underscores how foreign-policy debates are reshaping intra-party contests, especially in a state with a significant Arab-American electorate.

Time Magazine

• “Since early May, outside groups have spent nearly $50 million on television and digital advertising to boost Stevens and attack El-Sayed, including more than $25 million from the super PAC affiliated with the American Israel Public Affairs Committee.” — *Time*

Time Magazine

• “El-Sayed has become one of the country's most outspoken Democratic critics of Israel, accusing it of committing genocide in Gaza and calling for an end to American military assistance.” — *Time*

Time Magazine