AIPAC-backed candidate John Larson defeated in Connecticut Democratic primary by Luke Bronin

Luke Bronin has secured a significant victory over 14-term Congressman John Larson in Connecticut's Democratic primary, marking another setback for the AIPAC-backed incumbent. Bronin, the former mayor of Hartford, garnered 53% of the vote compared to Larson's 34%, in a race that highlighted shifting sentiments within the Democratic party.

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If we are going to fix this mess that we are in, we need to build a Democratic Party that is bringing a whole new energy to this fight.

While the pro-Israel lobby group AIPAC has faced increasing challenges in Democratic primaries nationwide, Israel itself was not the central issue in Connecticut's 1st Congressional District. Both Bronin and Larson, who hold traditionally pro-Israel stances, together captured nearly 90% of the vote. Progressive candidates Jillian Gilchrest and Ruth Fortune, who had criticized Israel's actions in Gaza, trailed significantly.

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Yes, I voted in favor of making sure that Israel, our ally, is going to get the aid from the United States that it needs. But the Palestinians need humanitarian aid, and Donald Trump has got to enforce the law.

Bronin, who has Jewish ancestry, centered his campaign on affordability and the need for fresh leadership within the Democratic Party. He emphasized building a party with "a whole new energy." His background includes service in the Obama administration as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Terrorist Financing and Financial Crimes.

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Trusting Donald Trump to do the right thing is a mind-blowing example of putting hope over all of the evidence in front of us.

The primary did touch upon Israel policy, with Larson defending his vote in favor of U.S. military aid to Israel, while also stressing the need for Palestinian humanitarian aid. Bronin countered, questioning the wisdom of trusting former President Donald Trump on such matters. Although Larson had a long record of supporting Israel, he had become critical of its war in Gaza and treatment of Palestinians. Bronin expressed opposition to U.S. taxpayer money funding offensive military aid to Israel, while supporting defensive measures for civilian protection.

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I think it’s hugely important that Israel exists as a safe, secure homeland for the Jewish people.