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Lynda Rae Resnick, an American entrepreneur and co-owner of The Wonderful Company, alongside her husband Stewart Resnick, has documented ties to organizations and initiatives that advocate for and support Israel. Their contributions and involvement have been primarily channeled through philanthropic endeavors and board memberships.
The Resnick Foundation, the couple’s charitable giving vehicle, has provided significant financial support to the American Friends of the Israeli Defense Forces (FIDF). Between 2015 and 2022, their foundation funneled approximately $2.4 million to FIDF, an organization that serves as a fundraising arm for the Israeli military. Annual donations during this period ranged from $200,000 to $500,000, with specific contributions made to entities such as Israel’s Navy Seals and the IDF.
Lynda Resnick and Stewart Resnick have also held positions as trustees and board members of the Washington Institute for Near East Policy (WINEP). This think tank is recognized for its advocacy of pro-Israel policies in the United States and has been described as an extension of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). Additionally, Stewart Resnick has served as a board member of the American Friends of IDC (now Reichman University), an institution with reported links to the Israeli intelligence and military establishment.
Further demonstrating their support for Israel, the Resnick Foundation allocated $50 million to the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology. This donation was designated for the establishment of the Stewart and Lynda Resnick Sustainability Center for Catalysis, with the stated goal of strengthening Israel’s economy and bolstering the Technion’s position as a global innovation hub. The couple also contributed $12 million to the National Library of Israel for its transformation, which included the creation of “The Lynda and Stewart Resnick Fellowship.” This fellowship supports researchers and artists whose work is focused on the library’s core areas of specialization, including Israel and Judaica. The Resnicks have also been ongoing supporters of Reichman University (formerly IDC Herzliya), with Stewart Resnick serving on its American Friends board and providing significant scholarships to students.
Some analyses suggest a connection between the Resnicks’ business interests, particularly their dominance in the American pistachio industry, and their involvement with pro-Israel advocacy. It has been argued that support for the “Israel Lobby” may serve to hinder Iran, a key competitor in the pistachio market, due to U.S. sanctions against the country.
| Candidate | Years | Direct Contributions | Behested Payments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rick Zbur | 2021 | $7,400 | $0 |
| Christopher Cabaldon | 2023 | $5,500 | $0 |
| Dawn Addis | 2021 | $4,900 | $0 |