Full Breakdown
AIPAC’s $30 Million Push Shapes Michigan Senate Primary
7/26/2026, 8:05:17 PM
Core Event
In the Democratic primary for Michigan’s U.S. Senate seat, the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) and affiliated groups have invested close to $30 million—their largest single-race spend—to support Rep. Haley Stevens. Stevens, a four-term congresswoman, faces progressive challenger Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, whose campaign has framed the influx of outside money as a test of grassroots power versus heavyweight donors. The contest will be decided in the primary scheduled for early August.
Data & Statistics
- AIPAC’s super-PAC United Democracy Project contributed millions; total outside spending for Stevens approaches $50 million.
- The nonprofit “A Stronger Michigan” has spent roughly $12 million without donor disclosure.
- Stevens used $12,000 of her own funds for early-July advertising, later rising to nearly $1 million.
- El-Sayed has spent about $3.2 million of his own money and attracted roughly $1 million from outside groups.
- Stevens’ campaign reports “hundreds” of volunteers, while El-Sayed’s effort has recruited more than 10,000 volunteers statewide.
Official Statements & Responses
When asked about AIPAC support, Stevens emphasized her record for Michigan, saying, “Anyone who supported me is supporting me because of my dedication to the people of Michigan, and the things that I have done for Michiganders.” She added a desire for U.S.–Israel cooperation on rebuilding Gaza but avoided direct discussion of the group. AIPAC and its super-PAC declined comment.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Anyone who supported me is supporting me because of my dedication to the people of Michigan, and the things that I have done for Michiganders,” — Haley Stevens
- “One of the laws of nature in politics is whoever spends the most money wins,” — New York Rep. Alexandria
- “She is nothing more than an employee of these billionaires," said Sen.” — Sen. Bernie Sanders
- “The reason that we've seen this war fought is because of the impact of AIPAC in our politics,” — Abdul El-Sayed
- “This election will come down to the many versus the money,” — Abdul El-Sayed
- “I expect groups like AIPAC will not support me in my future elections and frankly, I don't want their support,” — York Rep. Pat Ryan
