Ilhan Omar faces challenge to regain seat as AIPAC targets 'Squad' members in US primary races

AIPAC, the influential pro-Israel lobbying group, is spending up to $100 million in a focused effort to unseat members of the 'Squad,' a group of progressive lawmakers known for their criticism of Israel. The campaign's primary focus is on Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, a Democrat from Minnesota and a founding member of the 'Squad,' who faces a primary challenge from Don Samuels.

A letter outlining AIPAC's plan identified Ilhan as the main target in this effort. The group has already invested significant resources in other races, spending $14 million to support Democrat George Latimer in his successful bid to unseat Jamaal Bowman, who is currently serving New York District 16 and another 'Squad' member who has been critical of Israel's actions, particularly in the context of the ongoing Gaza conflict.

Ilhan, who has represented Minnesota's 5th District since 2019, has been a vocal advocate for a ceasefire in Gaza and has consistently criticised Israel's policies.

Her stance has made her a formidable opponent for AIPAC and other pro-Israel lobbying groups, such as PAC and the United Democratic Project. These groups see Ilhan's defeat as crucial in their broader strategy to counteract the influence of progressive voices within the Democratic Party.

Don Samuels, a moderate Democrat and former member of the Minneapolis City Council, is seen as a strong challenger to Ilhan.

In a similar primary race in 2022, Samuels narrowly lost to Ilhan by just 2,466 votes. With AIPAC's financial backing this time, it could be a close race.

Usamah Andrabi, a spokesperson for Justice Democrats, a group that supports the 'Squad,' acknowledged the strength of AIPAC's opposition but expressed confidence in Ilhan's grassroots support.

"I think they know that Ilhan Omar is a strong candidate with significant grassroots support and a solid record in her district—not just in services, but also in political leadership and initiatives that benefit the community every day," Andrabi said. "I believe they understand that she is a threat, but that doesn't mean they won't spend money even if that's the case."

Ilhan's political career has been marked by her willingness to challenge the status quo, particularly regarding US foreign policy. In mid-2021, she drew widespread attention for comparing the US and Israel to the Taliban and Hamas, a statement that prompted backlash from several pro-Israel lawmakers. Despite calls to clarify her remarks, Ilhan stood by her comments, intensifying her ongoing conflict with members of her party who support Israel.

The controversy surrounding Ilhan's views on Israel has been a constant feature of her time in Congress. Accusations of anti-Semitism have been levelled against her by critics, though she has consistently denied these charges.

In 2022, Ilhan was removed from the House Foreign Affairs Committee by a Republican majority. The decision, which passed with 218 votes in favour and 211 against, was widely viewed as a response to her outspoken criticism of Israel. She defended herself, suggesting that her removal was rooted in prejudice against her background as an immigrant and a Muslim.

"There is this idea that you are suspect if you are an immigrant, if you come from certain parts of the world, or based on your skin colour or religion, especially if you are Muslim," she said.

As Ilhan seeks re-election for a fourth term, the upcoming primary will test the strength of her support in Minnesota's 5th District, which includes Minneapolis and surrounding areas.

Samuels, originally from Jamaica, has positioned himself as a moderate alternative to Ilhan, criticising her for opposing funding for the Israeli military and accusing her of making the district "isolated and insular."

With AIPAC's substantial financial backing, the outcome of this primary could have significant implications not only for Ilhan's political future but also for the broader dynamics within the Democratic Party, as pro-Israel groups seek to diminish the influence of progressive voices in Congress.