Influence and Interests: Pro-Israel Lobby Contributions to Maryland Legislators
An Analysis of Why Maryland's Politicians are Silent as Palestinian Children Get Slaughtered by American-Made Bombs
Maryland legislators have received significant contributions from pro-Israel lobbies. In the House, Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD) tops the list with $1,620,294, followed by Glenn Ivey (D-MD) with $775,199, and down the list with amounts decreasing, ending with John Sarbanes (D-MD) at $30,600. In the Senate, Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen have collectively received more than $1.1 Million in campaign contributions. These contributions may influence political positions and actions regarding international conflicts, such as those involving Gaza.
Regarding broader contributions since 1990 to 2023, the pro-Israel lobby has spent hundreds of millions of dollars influencing US policy and decision making. Let’s remember that US taxpayer supports Israels genocidal campaign to the tune of $4 billion annually.
It is entirely possible that much of the campaign contributions received by US politicians who stay silent as children get slaughtered are US taxpayer dollars routed thru the Israeli government.
The total contributions to Senate and House candidates show a substantial investment in political lobbying, with the Senate receiving $69,862,910 and the House $91,212,791. Independents in the Senate have the highest average contribution per member at $82,998, compared to Democrats and Republicans.
The following table shows the top contributors for the 2024 election cycle. The American Israel Public Affairs Committee is the largest contributor with $7,798,111, primarily leaning towards Democrats. J Street also leans Democrat with $968,056 in contributions, while NorPAC, leaning Republican, contributed $340,595. Contributions show a bipartisan spread, but with certain PACs having clear political leanings.
The data reflect the financial influence on legislative actions and can provide insight into the potential biases in political stances taken by elected officials.
Data obtained form Open Secrets. The most comprehensive resource for campaign contributions, lobbying data and analysis available anywhere.