"As a Muslim in politics, I expected to be labeled a terrorist."
Primary Results
On Tuesday, former U.S. Army combat surgeon Adam Hamawy won the Democratic primary for New Jersey's 12th Congressional District. The seat is currently held by retiring Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman. Hamawy faced 12 other candidates, including East Brunswick Mayor Brad Cohen and activist Sue Altman.
Background
Hamawy served as a combat surgeon in Iraq in 2004 and helped save the life of Senator Tammy Duckworth. In 2024, he provided medical aid in Gaza and was temporarily trapped after the Rafah crossing closed. He supports Medicare for All, abolishing ICE, and opposing military aid to Israel. His endorsements include Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Senator Bernie Sanders, and the Congressional Progressive Caucus PAC.
Campaign Support
Hamawy received significant support from the independent super PAC American Priorities, which spent approximately $2 million on his behalf. The group was founded to counter AIPAC's influence in Democratic politics. His campaign also received a combined $200,000 from the Institute for Middle East Understanding Policy Project and Justice Democrats.
Controversy
During the campaign, Hamawy faced criticism over his 1995 trial testimony for Omar Abdel-Rahman, convicted of planning terror attacks. Hamawy stated that as a Muslim in politics, he expected to be labeled a terrorist, calling the attacks outdated tropes.
Outlook
Hamawy is expected to win the general election in November against Republican Gregg Mele.