Former Trump Impeachment Lawyer Dan Goldman Takes Ballot Box Drubbing In Reelection Bid

Democratic New York Rep. Dan Goldman lost his primary election Tuesday after the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) backed him.

Goldman’s challenger, former New York City Comptroller Brad Lander, defeated Goldman in the Democratic primary to represent New York’s 10th Congressional District after running on a platform that was critical of the pro-Israel lobby, according to NBC News and The New York Times. His endorsements from prominent figures and support among younger voters helped propel Lander to victory.

Goldman received nearly $195,000 in campaign donations from AIPAC and affiliated groups during his reelection bid, according to OpenSecrets. AIPAC’s super political action committee (PAC), United Democracy Project, has shelled out more than $38 million in the 2026 election cycle so far, and is on track to break its 2024 presidential-year spending record, according to Politico. The super PAC spent $26 million during the 2022 midterm election cycle.

Lander accused Goldman of refusing to criticize Israel’s actions in Gaza and of being too aligned with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

During a debate with PIX11, Goldman argued that describing Israel’s actions in Gaza as “genocide” is complicated, but stated that what happened in Gaza was “horrific.” Lander said AIPAC was hurting the Democratic Party by demanding unconditional support for Israel’s wars. Goldman stated that AIPAC had “real problems” and should not unconditionally support the Israeli government, though he defended his support for the lobbying group.