The Democratic Senate primary in Michigan witnessed a record level of financial intervention by the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). AIPAC's electoral arm, the United Democracy Project (UDP), has so far spent $30,638,639.63 against candidate Abdul El-Sayed, who takes a critical stance on Israel's policies.
According to Federal Election Commission (FEC) records, AIPAC and other political action committees (PACs) spent over $54 million to support the candidacy of El-Sayed's rival Stevens. Additionally, the Democratic Priorities Center, a dark money group, also spent about $6.5 million on advertising in favor of Stevens. Thus, total independent spending in support of Stevens exceeded $60 million.
Dark Money Network and Major Donors
Of the $100 million raised by UDP this election cycle, $30 million came directly from AIPAC. AIPAC's structure as a nonprofit makes it difficult to trace its donors. The tactic of funneling funds from such organizations to PACs to influence elections is known as 'dark money.'
Other major UDP donors include hedge fund manager and supporter of Republican President Donald Trump, Paul Singer; Kraft Group, the company of New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft; asset management firm head Marc Rowan; investment banker Blair Frank; Israeli-American entertainment executive Haim Saban; and real estate developer David Cordish.
Candidates' Financial Status and Statements
Unlike PACs, which are legally independent from candidates, campaigns can only accept individual donations of up to $3,500 per person. El-Sayed raised $14.5 million in direct campaign contributions, outpacing Stevens's $11.9 million. El-Sayed also received about $3.5 million in independent spending support from a PAC called 'Fight for Michigan,' made up of progressive groups and pro-Palestinian donors.
While Stevens dodged questions about AIPAC's spending on his behalf, El-Sayed has made it a centerpiece of his campaign. In a statement last month, El-Sayed recalled that Stevens voted against cutting off funding to Israel, saying, 'That is what the $30 million AIPAC spent bought.'
Speaking at a rally in Dearborn, Michigan state representative Alabas Farhat said, 'The status quo has long told us there is no money for modern schools, clean drinking water, healthcare, and affordable housing. But when it comes to bombing children in Gaza and carrying out ethnic cleansing in southern Lebanon, this administration finds the money.'
Significance of the Race
The Michigan Senate race is seen as critical for the future of the Israel-Palestine debate within the Democratic Party. In this state of over 10 million people, which voted for Trump in 2016 and 2024, El-Sayed's victory could create a political earthquake in the party's Israel policy. At the same time, the outcome of this race will determine the balance of the Senate after the November general elections.
