Candidates running for Congress in three Illinois districts with significant Arab and Muslim populations have publicly criticized the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, accusing it of corrupting US elections and undermining the voices of local voters. At a press conference, Democrats Joseph Ruzevich, Kina Collins, and Bushra Amiwala called for candidates and elected officials to reject donations from the influential lobby group, arguing that its financial involvement prioritizes foreign interests over American concerns and stifles debate on domestic issues. They highlighted the impact of AIPAC's funding on their own campaigns, claiming it fuels negative attack ads and silences those who advocate for human rights and independent foreign policy. The controversy over AIPAC's influence has extended beyond party lines, with some Republicans also refusing its money and calling for greater transparency regarding foreign lobbying. The issue has become a focal point in the current election cycle, as data shows hundreds of members of Congress have received AIPAC funds.