Israel-focused California primary pits progressive against AIPAC-backed moderate

A significant influx of millions of dollars from AIPAC and its allies has transformed a California congressional primary into a high-stakes battleground over the pro-Israel group's influence in Democratic politics. The race in the Bay Area's 14th district pits moderate Democrat Melissa Hernandez against progressive state Sen. Aisha Wahab.

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Hernandez, president of the Bay Area Rapid Transit Board, is backed by AIPAC, while Wahab, a state senator, advocates for ending U.S. military aid to Israel. Wahab has been vocal about the conflict, stating during a debate that Israel's war in Gaza constituted genocide. Hernandez, conversely, acknowledged Israel's right to self-defense after the October 7 attacks but criticized the "destruction into Gaza" as excessive.

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Israel had a right to defend itself following the October 7, 2023, attacks, but that the “destruction into Gaza has gone too far.”

Wahab is considered the favorite heading into Tuesday's election to succeed former Rep. Eric Swalwell. She previously led Hernandez in the June 16 special primary, securing 42.8 percent of the vote compared to Hernandez's 16.8 percent. The United Democracy Project, AIPAC's primary super PAC, has invested nearly $2.5 million to support Hernandez and oppose Wahab. Another group, Bold America, funded by the United Democracy Project, has also spent approximately $1.8 million.

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I have no say over independent expenditures. That is the law, and I see them when you do.

When questioned about the AIPAC spending, Hernandez stated she has no control over independent expenditures, adhering to the law. She emphasized that her agenda is not dictated by her thousands of donors. Despite the intense focus on Israel, it has not been the central issue of the campaign. Wahab, whose parents are Afghan refugees, has primarily focused on affordability and civil rights, with her campaign website calling for "No More Wars!" but not specifically referencing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

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I have thousands of donors and not one of them sets my agenda.