Topic overview
In brief
- Maura Sullivan has received 150 donations from individuals linked to AIPAC or its super PAC.
- Sullivan's campaign has raised over $296,000 from these donors, which is about 10% of her total fundraising.
- The financial support from AIPAC-linked donors has raised concerns about its implications for her campaign as the primary approaches.
Summary
In New Hampshire, a leading Democratic candidate for an open U.S. House seat, Maura Sullivan, has garnered significant financial support from donors associated with AIPAC and its super PAC. This support amounts to over $296,000, which constitutes roughly 10% of her total campaign contributions exceeding $3 million. Despite the growing distance of many Democrats from AIPAC, Sullivan's campaign has emphasized that these donations do not reflect her stance on Israel policy. Sullivan, a Marine veteran and former Pentagon official, has publicly criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and advocates for a two-state solution, while also acknowledging the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Sullivan's opponent, Shaheen, has received considerably less financial backing from AIPAC-linked donors, highlighting a potential divide in campaign financing among Democratic candidates. The political landscape surrounding Israel has shifted, particularly following Israel's recent military actions in Gaza, which have prompted over 100 House Democrats to vote for cutting off aid to Israel. Sullivan's campaign has attempted to downplay the significance of the AIPAC donations, suggesting that many contributors are personal acquaintances rather than direct supporters of AIPAC's agenda.