Representative Haley Stevens ducked a direct question about AIPAC donations during a Michigan Democratic Senate primary debate, delivering 160 words about state pride without mentioning Israel. Her rival, Dr. Abdul El-Sayed interrupted to accuse her of dodging the issue, arguing the money helps elect lawmakers who ship $3.5 billion in American military aid overseas rather than funding health care and schools at home.

The confrontation captures a seismic shift in Democratic politics. A New York Times/Siena poll found that nearly three-quarters of Democratic voters now oppose military aid to Israel, up from 45 percent three years earlier, while 60 percent are more sympathetic to Palestinians. Before Israel's post-Oct. 7 campaign in Gaza, mainstream Democrats could safely back the longtime U.S. ally. Such ties now carry primary-season risks.

A Detroit News report found that 31 percent of Stevens's Senate donors have also given to AIPAC, a far higher share than during her House campaigns. AIPAC has avoided donating directly to primary candidates this year, but its donors have funded preferred contenders and shadowy super PACs. The lobbying group has grown toxic in Democratic primaries even as its money flows through indirect channels.

State Senator Mallory McMorrow, straddling El-Sayed's progressivism and Stevens's moderation, said she would back a ban on U.S. arms sales to Israel. A Stevens aide said she would oppose that measure. The three Democrats seek to replace retiring Senator Gary Peters in what is expected to be one of the most expensive Senate races this fall.