Gov. Josh Shapiro (D-PA) weighed in on the national conversation surrounding the American Israel Public Affairs Committee donating to and endorsing American political candidates, calling the “cynical” use of anti-AIPAC sentiments “a danger for our system.”AIPAC endorsements and donations from its associated PACs have become a central conversation in the 2026 midterm elections, as the group’s influence has played a significant role in primary elections in states such as Kentucky and New Jersey. Shapiro, who has been vocal about his own Jewish faith, warned in a Politico interview that aired Tuesday about the dangers of conflating anti-AIPAC sentiments and frustration with Jewish donors in elections.“I think it’s been used cynically, by some, to try and silence certain voices, to try and say that certain people participating in politics shouldn’t count, or should be viewed in a toxic way,” Shapiro said.
“Now, do I agree with every political decision they’ve made?” Shapiro continued, referring to AIPAC. “Every endorsement they’ve made? Of course not.”
Shapiro, who has served as Pennsylvania’s governor since 2023, was a victim of an antisemitic attack on his home in April 2025, when an arsonist set fire to the governor’s mansion over the Passover holiday. The arsonist said he was motivated by his anger over Shapiro’s stance on the Israel-Hamas War, according to an affidavit. Shapiro has been outspoken about his Jewish faith and how it has shaped his personal life and career.
