AIPAC Ends Candidate Endorsements and Direct PAC Giving

AIPAC will stop endorsing candidates, making direct political action committee contributions and earmarking donations for candidates, while shifting its fundraising toward contributions made directly by individual members, the organization said in a letter to members. The American Israel Public Affairs Committee said endorsements, direct PAC contributions and earmarking would no longer be part of its approach. It plans to organize members to give directly to candidates and to use newer political fundraising tools. The change follows a several-month strategic review by AIPAC’s board, according to the organization’s letter. AIPAC spokeswoman Deryn Sousa said members had contributed more than $90 million directly to candidates during the current election cycle and that organized member giving would continue and increase. The figure is AIPAC’s estimate and includes donations made through its fundraising efforts, according to Sousa. The policy change does not end AIPAC’s political activity. Sousa said the United Democracy Project, AIPAC’s affiliated super PAC, will continue. The committee can make independent expenditures for or against candidates, but AIPAC’s reports do not...