AIPAC gets lots of attention in Michigan Senate primary, but voters say it’s not their top issue

The pro-Israel lobby AIPAC's substantial financial involvement in Michigan's Democratic Senate primary is generating considerable attention, yet many voters assert it is not their top issue.

Noelle Gray, a 27-year-old morning producer for Detroit’s Local 4 television station, noted the flood of political advertising, particularly AIPAC's spending. She expressed concern about "foreign interests being infiltrated into the state of Michigan" and a desire to support candidates focused on "Michiganders." Despite these reservations, Gray ultimately voted for progressive candidate Abdul El-Sayed, citing concerns about data centers and the immigration enforcement agency ICE, rather than AIPAC's spending.

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It concerns me a little bit because it makes me a little leery of foreign interests being infiltrated into the state of Michigan. I want to support somebody who is for the state of Michigan. I love Michigan. Born and raised here my entire life, and it worries me on corporate and international interests. Are you really focused on Michiganders?

AIPAC's affiliated super PAC has reportedly spent over $30 million to support moderate Democrat Haley Stevens, aiming to prevent El-Sayed, a vocal critic of Israel and the lobby, from reaching the Senate. El-Sayed has made his opposition to AIPAC a central theme of his campaign, criticizing Stevens for her alignment with the group.

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I would hope putting someone in the position of our Senate will represent our interests, keep us safe, but also protect the people who are here.

Polling in Michigan suggests a complex view of AIPAC among Democratic voters. A recent survey for Detroit News/WDIV-TV found that 49% of likely Democratic primary voters hold an unfavorable opinion of AIPAC, while 12% view it favorably, and 39% remain neutral. Another poll indicated that a significant majority of likely Democratic primary voters are less likely to support a candidate endorsed by AIPAC.

Despite the lobby's significant financial push, the focus for many voters remains on domestic issues and ensuring their elected officials prioritize Michigan's interests. The influence of external groups like AIPAC is a point of concern, but it does not appear to be the sole or even primary driver of voter decisions in this primary.

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AIPAC is perfectly fine with either Congresswoman Stevens or Mike Rogers. If either of them win, Israel wins.