Top Democrat survives double-barreled challenge as party’s Israel divide hits home
House Minority Whip Katherine Clark advanced past two left-wing challengers who made Gaza and AIPAC money central issues in the Democratic primary.
House Democratic Whip Katherine Clark defeated progressive challengers Jonathan Paz and Tarik Samman in the Massachusetts 5th Congressional District primary. The race highlighted divisions within the Democratic party over the conflict in Gaza and the influence of pro-Israel political spending. Despite criticism regarding her acceptance of AIPAC donations, Clark secured a decisive victory.
- Katherine Clark, House Democratic Whip, won her primary election in Massachusetts’ 5th Congressional District.
- Her challengers, Jonathan Paz and Tarik Samman, focused their campaigns on the conflict in Gaza and pro-Israel political funding.
- Clark’s fundraising significantly outpaced her opponents, with $4.5 million raised compared to Paz’s $88,500 and Samman’s $43,800.
- While endorsed by AIPAC, Clark has expressed criticisms of the Israeli government’s actions in Gaza and has voted to cut U.S. military aid.
- Challengers argued Clark should renounce AIPAC money despite her criticisms of Israel’s conduct.
- Clark has held her position since 2013 and has been House Democratic whip since 2022.
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