Haley Stevens defends AIPAC spending in her failed Senate run

Rep. Haley Stevens rejected the suggestion that spending by AIPAC's super PAC damaged her unsuccessful Michigan Democratic Senate primary campaign, characterizing the pro-Israel group as "Jewish Americans" Exercising democratic participation.

Stevens, who lost the primary to Abdul El-Sayed last week, has drawn attention from progressive Democrats regarding her Israel support and AIPAC's involvement in her race. She subsequently endorsed El-Sayed, who advances to face former Rep. Mike Rogers in November's general election.

When asked by CNN's Pamela Brown whether AIPAC's involvement ultimately hurt her candidacy, Stevens pushed back. "No, I don't," She said, adding that many people discussing the group "maybe they dont understand what the group is. AIPAC is a group of six million Jewish Americans, a lot of Jewish moms whose kiddos spend time in Israel."

She characterized AIPAC members as concerned citizens motivated by fear and values. "Theyre scared, just like a lot of people are scared, for a variety of different reasons here in America. Theyre really good Americans who just care about democracy and freedom."

Stevens expressed pride in her campaign and her relationships within AIPAC, stating the group "just like some of the other large groups, is going to continue to exist." She noted that while she does not work for the organization, she acknowledged that "a lot of people are deeply frustrated that [Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin] Netanyahu has failed to give us peace."

Stevens highlighted that AIPAC was not the sole outside force in the race, noting "a bunch of Democratic money got involved, too" And that El-Sayed also benefited from outside spending. Regarding potential Jewish voter concerns about El-Sayed, she acknowledged "theres going to be a private and personal decision made by Michigans Jewish community," While emphasizing her own commitment: "I am a Zionist Democrat. Im saying that live on CNN. Im standing by the Jewish community."

Stevens urged voters to prioritize preventing a Republican victory, citing El-Sayed's positions on healthcare, women's health, and his rejection of socialism.