A fundraising push from the Israel lobby has caused a stir in the upcoming special election in New Jersey, pitting two moderate candidates against each other. The race, which will take place on Thursday, has seen a flood of cash from AIPAC donors, creating a highly competitive and closely watched contest.
The two candidates vying for the seat in New Jersey’s 5th Congressional District are Democrat Josh Gottheimer and Republican Steve Lonegan. Both candidates have been actively campaigning and raising funds for the special election, but the influx of money from AIPAC donors has added a new dynamic to the race.
AIPAC, or the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, is a powerful pro-Israel lobbying group that has a significant influence on US foreign policy. The organization has a long history of supporting candidates who align with their pro-Israel agenda, and this special election in New Jersey is no exception.
According to reports, AIPAC donors have contributed over $100,000 to Gottheimer’s campaign in the final weeks leading up to the election. This is a significant amount of money for a special election in a relatively small district, and it has given Gottheimer a significant advantage over his opponent.
The influx of AIPAC money has also caused concern among some voters and political observers. Many see this as an attempt by the Israel lobby to influence the outcome of the election and push their agenda in Congress.
However, both candidates have downplayed the influence of AIPAC money on their campaigns. Gottheimer has stated that he is grateful for the support of AIPAC donors, but that he will not be swayed by any outside influence. Lonegan has also stated that he is not concerned about the AIPAC donations and that he remains focused on the issues that matter to the people of New Jersey.
Despite the controversy surrounding the AIPAC donations, the special election in New Jersey has become a highly competitive race. Both candidates have been actively campaigning and reaching out to voters, highlighting their plans and policies for the district.
Gottheimer, a former speechwriter for President Bill Clinton, has focused on issues such as job creation, healthcare, and education. He has also emphasized his support for Israel and his commitment to maintaining a strong US-Israel relationship.
Lonegan, a former mayor and conservative activist, has campaigned on a platform of cutting taxes, reducing government spending, and securing the US-Mexico border. He has also highlighted his support for Israel and has criticized Gottheimer for his ties to AIPAC.
The special election in New Jersey has garnered national attention, with many seeing it as a test of the current political climate and a potential indicator of the 2022 midterm elections. The influx of AIPAC money has only added to the significance of this race, with many wondering if it will have a decisive impact on the outcome.
In the end, it will be up to the voters of New Jersey’s 5th Congressional District to decide who will represent them in Congress. The race between Gottheimer and Lonegan is a close one, and the outcome is far from certain. However, one thing is clear – the AIPAC donations have added a new dimension to this special election, and their impact will be closely watched by many.
As the final days of the campaign unfold, both candidates will continue to make their case to the voters, and the people of New Jersey will have the final say. Regardless of the outcome, one thing is certain – the AIPAC donations have brought attention to this special election and have highlighted the influence of the Israel lobby in US politics.
