Rogers Camp Asks AIPAC Not to Back Him in Senate Race

Allies of Michigan Republican Senate nominee Mike Rogers have asked the pro-Israel advocacy group AIPAC not to advertise on his behalf, a request that has created a rift with the influential organization ahead of the general election. The move comes as Rogers prepares to face Democrat Abdul ElSayed, a vocal critic of Israel's government.

According to a report published on August 22, Rogers met with AIPAC Board Chair Michael Tuchin in Los Angeles last week. Following that conversation, AIPAC shelved an already-produced video advertisement that targeted his Democratic opponent. The report, citing sources familiar with the situation, indicates that AIPAC officials were angered by the request from Rogers's camp.

The decision reflects a complex political calculation. ElSayed, who won a narrow primary victory over Rep. Haley Stevens, has made criticism of AIPAC a central theme of his campaign. During the primary, he directly challenged the group, saying, "AIPAC, if you're listening, come back and burn it again." He has also accused Israel of genocide in Gaza and labeled it a rogue state. AIPAC and its affiliates spent more than $30 million in the primary in an effort to support...