Jeffries Opposes Bid to Cut Israel Aid After Record AIPAC Earmark

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries opposes an amendment to cut $3.3 billion in military aid to Israel from a State Department appropriations bill. Jeffries stated in a letter to Democratic colleagues that the amendment, proposed by Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), is "overly broad" and would restrict funding for humanitarian aid, refugee resettlement, and embassy operations, in addition to eliminating military financing for Israel. This opposition follows his campaign operation receiving the largest earmarked donation in AIPAC PAC's history, totaling $149,300 from billionaire investor Daniel Och. AIPAC, which opposes the amendment, argues that "Security assistance is critical to Israel’s security and the U.S.-Israel alliance."