AIPAC has long been a controversial organization, even in the world of lobbying. They have a history of being vindictive, engaging in personal attacks & what could be seen as intimidation. But with Tucker & Ted going after it, WWIII, & everything else as of recent, it's time we finally tackle AIPAC. So what are they? How do they work? What are they hiding? And who do they represent?
As for AIEF, a 501c3, they are not allowed to engage in political endorsements or lobbying. AIPAC, a 501c4, is. If AIPAC coordinates with the Israeli government, they trigger FARA. So what’s the solution? AIPAC endorses & lobbies members of congress while AIEF does the coordinating. They maintain legal separation while technically not violating any laws. However, AIEF’s website even says they are the charitable organization affiliated with AIPAC, “Americas Pro Israel Lobby”. Which, if you recall, AIPAC says they aren’t pro Israel. They’re for promoting the US Israeli relationship.
Sources
OpenSecrets PAC Summary – United Democracy Project (UDP): https://www.opensecrets.org/political-action-committees-pacs/united-democracy-project/C00799031/summary/2024
OpenSecrets – UDP Independent Expenditures in Democratic Primaries: https://www.opensecrets.org/outside-spending/detail/2024?cmte=C00799031&tab=targeted_candidates
UDP’s Role and AIPAC Backing FactCheck.org – United Democracy Project and AIPAC Connection: https://www.factcheck.org/2024/09/united-democracy-project-2/
AIEF & AIPAC Overlap Israel Lobby Report – AIEF and AIPAC board/staff overlap: https://www.israellobby.org/fundraising/AIPAC.htm
Politico – AIEF congressional trips and messaging: https://www.politico.com/news/2024/10/30/israel-aipac-funded-congress-travel-00185167
Targeting of Progressive Candidates The Guardian – Bowman, Levin, and antisemitism messaging in UDP campaigns: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/apr/20/pro-israel-groups-gaza-us-elections
FARA Implications & AIPAC's Legal Strategy IRmep – Report on AIPAC’s structure avoiding FARA registration: https://www.irmep.org/11-3-2009aipacfara.pdf
Broader Context: Influence of Super PACs & NRA Comparison Politico – Senate Democrats call out super PACs like UDP: https://www.politico.com/news/2025/06/17/democrats-super-pac-bernie-sanders-00410607