AIPAC leads outside spending in 2026 US midterm elections

The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) has emerged as the largest outside spender in the 2026 US midterm elections. Through its election-spending vehicle, the United Democracy Project (UDP), the group has directed $54 million toward congressional races, according to campaign finance monitor OpenSecrets.

The broader pro-Israel donor network has spent a total of $71 million, ranking second only to the cryptocurrency industry in total spending. Much of this financial activity has targeted Democratic primaries, with the goal of supporting candidates aligned with Israel and opposing those critical of unconditional US military aid.

While the spending has secured some victories, it has also faced significant resistance. In Michigan, AIPAC and its allies reportedly spent approximately $30 million in an unsuccessful attempt to prevent Abdul El-Sayed from winning the Democratic Senate nomination. Progressive candidates have also defeated AIPAC-backed opponents in states including California, Illinois, and New York, often citing the organization’s influence as a central campaign issue.