The New York Times recently faced scrutiny regarding its portrayal of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). AIPAC, a prominent U.S.-based group, has been targeted by anti-Israel advocates. On Wednesday, the House of Representatives voted on a proposal by outgoing anti-Israel Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., to reduce military and humanitarian aid to Israel. Although the measure failed, it garnered significant support among Democratic lawmakers, resulting in a 103-98 vote. Massie stood as the lone Republican supporter.
In the Times’ report on the vote, the paper underscored the growing tendency of Democrats to reject donations from AIPAC. Historically, AIPAC contributed to Democrats and Republicans who supported Israel and its U.S. alliance. Among those refusing AIPAC funds is Rep. Seth Moulton, D-Mass., who is campaigning for the Senate.
“Mr. Moulton, who is running for Senate, has also said he would no longer accept donations from AIPAC, the hard-right pro-Israel lobbying group that has recently become a toxic brand among Democrats,” the Times reported.
Established in 1954, AIPAC aims 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.” It strives to “elect Democrats and Republicans who support the alliance.” Previously, leading Democrats attended AIPAC’s annual Policy Conference, which hasn’t occurred since the COVID pandemic. During its last event in March 2020, speakers included Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J., Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., and then-former Vice President Joe Biden. Rep. Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., addressed the conference in the prior year while acting as House speaker. Recently, Pelosi voted in favor of the bill to withdraw funds from Israel, with Jeffries opposing it.
Media critics expressed confusion at the Times’ characterization of AIPAC. Commentary Magazine editor John Podhoretz questioned the description, citing AIPAC’s predominantly Democratic staff. New York Post columnist Karol Markowicz commented on the inconsistency of the label “hard-right” given AIPAC’s left-center stance. California Post opinion editor Joel Pollak and Jewish Insider editor-in-chief Josh Kraushaar criticized media coverage and its perceived disconnect from reality.
AIPAC, led by President Michael Tuchin, is a frequent target among anti-Israel progressives. The New York Times and AIPAC did not respond to Fox News Digital’s inquiries for comment.
Since October 7, support for Israel among Democrats has significantly declined, contrasting with continued backing from Republicans. AIPAC has been wrongly accused by anti-Israel voices of wielding undue influence. The debate around Israel remains a vital issue, potentially influencing the 2028 presidential election.
Fox News’ Brian Flood contributed to this report.
Joseph A. Wulfsohn is a media reporter for Fox News Digital. Send story tips to [email protected] or follow on Twitter: @JosephWulfsohn.