AIPAC’s Favorability Slips in Michigan Amid Ongoing Israel-Gaza Conflict

Progress Michigan and Public Policy Polling surveyed voters in Michigan and reported that a majority now hold an unfavorable view of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). More than half of respondents expressed disapproval, while only one-in-five said they view the group favorably. The poll also showed AIPAC trailing both President Donald Trump and the National Rifle Association (NRA) in favorability, with the NRA receiving an unfavorable rating from 47 % of respondents.

Common Dreams

During the current election cycle, AIPAC contributed roughly $30 million to a failed effort to defeat Abdul El-Sayed in the Democratic Senate primary. The organization’s bipartisan influence in Michigan politics has been highlighted, yet the polling suggests its appeal is waning two years into the United States-backed Israeli military campaign in Gaza and amid heightened debate over free expression on Israel-Palestine issues.

Common Dreams

A separate poll conducted by Upswing Strategies about a year ago found that nearly half of voters in swing districts across Michigan, Illinois, Pennsylvania, and Minnesota would “never” support a candidate who accepted AIPAC funding. In addition, Quinnipiac University pollsters reported that a clear majority of voters opposed continued U.S. weapons shipments to Israel.

Common Dreams

“For years, pundits and political analysts have warned AIPAC to avoid receiving a similar fate to the NRA after Parkland and other avoidable tragedies from gun violence,” — Levi Teitel, communications director of Progress Michigan

Common Dreams