Pritzker knocks AIPAC after pro-Israel group spent big in Illinois races

The Hill
by Max Rego
March 19, 2026
3 min read

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Illinois governor criticizes AIPAC for spending over $21 million in state Democratic primary races.

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Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker criticized AIPAC on Wednesday for spending more than $21 million across multiple Democratic primary races in the state. The American Israel Public Affairs Committee and affiliated groups achieved mixed electoral results despite the substantial investment in Illinois contests. Pritzker's rebuke reflects growing tension between the pro-Israel lobbying powerhouse and some Democratic leaders over the group's aggressive political spending and influence within party primaries. AIPAC has dramatically expanded its electoral spending in recent years, particularly in races involving candidates critical of Israeli government policy. The confrontation underscores the deepening fault line within the Democratic Party over how to balance support for Israel with concerns about Palestinian rights.

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