During a meeting in New Orleans, the Democratic National Committee (DNC) rejected a resolution aimed at addressing the influence of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (Aipac), which has been a significant player in Democratic primaries. The resolution was intended to confront what its sponsors described as Aipac's outsized influence through dark money, particularly highlighting Aipac's $14 million expenditure in a single Illinois Democratic primary. This decision has sparked frustration among progressives, who argue that Aipac's financial interventions undermine the party's values. Since the 2022 midterms, Aipac has contributed over $221 million to Democratic races, with $22 million spent in Illinois alone last month. Critics, including IMEU executive director Margaret DeReus, contend that Aipac's agenda is misaligned with the majority of Democrats and the American public. DNC chair Ken Martin defended the committee's decision, emphasizing a broader rejection of dark money rather than targeting specific organizations. Two additional resolutions concerning Palestinian state recognition and conditioning military aid to Israel were deferred to a working group, further indicating the party's struggle to address complex Middle East issues.