Brad Lander's Democratic primary campaign for New York's 10th Congressional District has made opposing AIPAC a central theme, reflecting a dramatic shift from the organization's once-unquestioned bipartisan standing. Lander, a self-described liberal Zionist, has framed the pro-Israel lobby as part of an 'unholy trinity' of corrupting political influences alongside Wall Street and crypto interests.

Incumbent Dan Goldman accepted AIPAC's endorsement but refused all PAC funding, attempting to assert independence while navigating the group's declining influence among younger Democrats. The contest mirrors broader primary battles nationwide where AIPAC's traditional sway faces growing resistance from progressive challengers questioning unconditional support for Israeli government policies.

Historically, AIPAC maintained bipartisan influence for decades, reflecting shared values between America and Israel. The fracture began during Obama's presidency over the Iran nuclear deal, when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed AIPAC's conference but skipped the White House. This marked an unprecedented moment of partisan division over Middle East policy.

Now the United Democracy Project super PAC spent $26 million in 2022 targeting Democrats deemed insufficiently pro-Israel, but with mixed electoral results. As Democrats increasingly question unconditional military aid to Israel, AIPAC's defense of the Netanyahu government has positioned it as a symbol of the old guard rather than a unifying force in American politics.