On Wednesday, July 16th, 2026, the U.S. House of Representatives voted on a bill proposed by outgoing Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) to cut $3.3 billion in military and humanitarian aid to Israel. The amendment failed but received majority support among Democratic lawmakers, with a vote tally of 103-98.

In its coverage of the vote, The New York Times referred to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) as a "hard-right pro-Israel lobbying group," highlighting how some Democrats, including Rep. Seth Moulton who is running for Senate, have pledged to no longer accept donations from AIPAC. The Times noted that AIPAC has recently become a "toxic brand among Democrats."

Founded in 1954, AIPAC states its mission is to "encourage and persuade the U.S. government to enact specific policies that create a strong, enduring and mutually beneficial relationship with our ally Israel," and to help "elect Democrats and Republicans who support the alliance."

The characterization by The New York Times sparked criticism. Commentary Magazine editor John Podhoretz questioned the label, pointing out that AIPAC's staff is "probably 70 percent Democratic" and asked, "What possible defense can you have of this formulation? Is it fun joining the jackals?"

The debate over AIPAC's political positioning comes amid growing divisions within the Democratic Party, where opposition to Israel has become a litmus test for the progressive base and is expected to be a significant issue in the 2028 presidential election.

Sources