Michigan Republican Senate candidate Mike Rogers has told the American Israel Public Affairs Committee that he does not want direct support in the race, according to reporting cited by Antiwar.com.
The move comes after Abdul El-Sayed won the Democratic primary over Haley Stevens, who had been backed by AIPAC. El-Sayed frequently criticized Israel and Stevens’ AIPAC support during the campaign.
A split over how to handle AIPAC
According to Axios, AIPAC had been prepared to run ads supporting Rogers after El-Sayed’s primary win. But Rogers’ campaign reportedly believes Stevens’ AIPAC support damaged her chances with Democratic primary voters.
That does not mean Rogers’ allies are rejecting pro-Israel money altogether. People familiar with the matter told Axios that Rogers’ allies are encouraging AIPAC donors to support the candidate through his PAC.
Talks reportedly halted
The strategy has created a rift between Rogers and AIPAC, with talks between the two sides now completely halted, according to the report.
Some Jewish Republicans are reportedly trying to resolve the standoff. Republicans are split over whether AIPAC will remain on the sidelines or eventually try to influence the outcome of the race.
The dispute reflects a broader political tension over Israel’s role in American elections, with candidates weighing the benefits of donor support against potential backlash from voters skeptical of close Washington-Tel Aviv ties.
This article is based on reporting by Kyle Anzalone at Antiwar.com, citing Axios.
