AIPAC is the top issue at final primary debate between Stevens and El-Sayed in Michigan

In Michigan's Democratic Senate primary debate, AIPAC's record spending for Rep. Haley Stevens dominated the discussion, as challenger Abdul El-Sayed repeatedly criticized her ties to the pro-Israel lobby. Stevens dodged questions about AIPAC's influence, while El-Sayed framed the race as a referendum on Palestinian rights. The debate highlighted the growing toxicity of AIPAC's brand among Democratic voters.

The final Michigan Democratic Senate primary debate, held Monday night in Detroit, was dominated by the issue of AIPAC's record spending for Rep. Haley Stevens. Challenger Abdul El-Sayed repeatedly pressed Stevens on her ties to the pro-Israel lobby, accusing her of being a reliable vote for a foreign government that undermines Palestinian self-determination. Stevens dodged direct questions about AIPAC's influence, instead emphasizing her representation of a large Jewish community and her efforts to bring hostages home. The debate highlighted how AIPAC's brand has become toxic among some Democratic voters, with El-Sayed framing the race as a choice between corporate interests and Palestinian rights. Both candidates also traded barbs over super PAC funding, with Stevens calling El-Sayed a 'millionaire' and El-Sayed noting the 12-to-1 spending disparity. The primary is set for Aug. 4.