Feb 14 • 08:51 UTC 🇶🇦 Qatar Al Jazeera

Chicago Election Test: 'Balc' Challenges 'AIPAC'

The newly established political action committee 'Balc' has pledged to support candidates in the U.S. Congress advocating for Palestinian rights, challenging established pro-Israel lobbying groups.

Following its establishment, the political action committee known as 'Balc' has declared its exclusive commitment to supporting current and new members of the U.S. Congress who advocate for Palestinian rights. Executive director Margaret Darius emphasized the committee's priorities, which include ending ongoing Israeli violations of Palestinian rights, preventing U.S. complicity in the Israeli apartheid system, and stopping illegal land theft from Palestinians. This marks a significant shift in the political landscape as the committee aims to challenge the dominant narrative around U.S. support for Israel.

Balc has announced its support for several progressive Democratic Congresswomen in the upcoming midterm elections this November, including Summer Lee, Ilhan Omar, Delia Ramirez, and Rashida Tlaib. These candidates represent various districts known for their progressive stances on social justice issues, and Balc's endorsement signifies a push to elevate Palestinian advocacy within the U.S. political dialogue. Additionally, Balc has backed the candidacy of Kate Abughazaleh in Illinois' 9th district, which encompasses large parts of Chicago and has a Democratic leaning.

The emergence of Balc highlights a growing trend among progressive political movements that seek to confront established pro-Israel lobbying organizations like AIPAC. As traditional narratives surrounding U.S.-Israel relations face new scrutiny, Balc's efforts reflect a broader demand for accountability regarding humanitarian issues in Palestine. This could potentially reshape voting patterns and influence congressional representation in areas with significant support for Palestinian rights, creating a new avenue for political mobilization.

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