Former US Army doctor Adam Hamawy will win Democratic House primary in New Jersey, CNN projects

Adam Hamawy Secures Democratic Primary Win in New Jersey’s 12th District

Former US Army doctor Adam Hamawy – Adam Hamawy, a retired US Army combat surgeon and vocal critic of Israel’s actions, has been projected as the winner of the Democratic primary for New Jersey’s 12th Congressional District by CNN’s Decision Desk. The race, which saw a large field of candidates, was dominated by Hamawy’s ability to unite progressive voters and leverage support from a pro-Palestinian super PAC. His victory positions him to face Republican Gregg Mele in the November general election, marking a significant shift in the district’s political landscape.

A Political Climate Shaped by Justice and Unity

Hamawy’s campaign, which emphasized grassroots mobilization and a clear vision for working families, gained momentum despite early skepticism from some Democratic insiders. “We were told an outsider couldn’t win. That we couldn’t compete,” he said in a speech to supporters, according to a campaign transcript. “But together, we proved that people who are fed up can build a movement that demands change.” His remarks highlighted his commitment to fighting for justice without relying on traditional political structures.

The former military doctor’s platform resonated with voters, particularly those who aligned with his progressive values. He has consistently advocated for policies such as Medicare for All and the cancellation of medical and student loan debt. His stance on Palestinian rights, including accusations that Israel committed genocide in Gaza, has also drawn strong support from grassroots activists and liberal organizations.

“Dr. Hamawy won this race the old-fashioned way by outworking his opponents, out-organizing the establishment, and building the progressive coalition needed to deliver his people-first vision to New Jersey working families,” said Alexandra Rojas, executive director of Justice Democrats, a group focused on electing Democrats who reject corporate PAC funding.

Endorsements and a Legacy of Service

Hamawy’s campaign received backing from prominent figures, including Senator Bernie Sanders and members of the Congressional Progressive Caucus. His humanitarian efforts, particularly his two medical missions to Gaza in 2024 and 2025, have further solidified his appeal. During one of these trips, he and his team were stranded in the region after Israel closed the Rafah border crossing, a situation that underscored his dedication to aiding those in need.

The medical missions also connected him to Senator Tammy Duckworth, who played a crucial role in his victory. Duckworth, a decorated Illinois senator and former Army veteran, helped secure Hamawy’s evacuation from Gaza in 2024 after calling on President Joe Biden to assist. This act of support was a poignant reminder of their shared history—Duckworth credited Hamawy with saving her life after he treated her following a helicopter crash in Iraq in 2004. “Army Veteran. Former combat surgeon. The leader New Jersey deserves,” she wrote on X after Hamawy’s projected win.

Controversies and Clarifications

Hamawy’s victory has not come without scrutiny. Critics have pointed to his past association with Omar Abdel-Rahman, an Egyptian-born cleric convicted of seditious conspiracy in the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. Hamawy served as a defense witness in the trial, a fact that drew attention from Republican opponents. “If elected in November, Congress should fully investigate his ties to terrorist organizations and determine whether he is fit to serve,” wrote Rep. Mike Lawler, a New York Republican, in a post on X.

Hamawy’s campaign has addressed these concerns, stressing that his role as a witness was part of his duty to the legal system. A campaign spokesperson noted, “He condemns that man’s violent rhetoric and actions, and all violence, hatred, and terrorism — and he will always.” The statement also highlighted that the attacks on Hamawy are part of a broader pattern targeting Muslim and Arab candidates. “These bad-faith, guilt-by-association attacks are nothing new in our politics,” the spokesperson added, emphasizing Hamawy’s longstanding advocacy for justice and his separation from Abdel-Rahman’s activities after the cleric’s arrest.

A Path Forward for Progressive Change

Hamawy’s win has been framed as a rejection of the criticisms he faced during the primary. Supporters argue that his campaign demonstrated the power of grassroots efforts and the ability to overcome establishment biases. His focus on progressive issues, including Medicare expansion and debt relief, aligns with the priorities of many voters in the district, which has historically leaned Democratic but faces challenges from Republican fundraising advantages.

While the primary victory is a major step, the general election will test Hamawy’s ability to translate this momentum into a broader win. Mele, who ran unopposed in his party’s primary, will need to counter Hamawy’s appeal to working-class voters and his stance on Gaza. The race also reflects the growing importance of identity politics in congressional elections, with Hamawy’s Muslim background and Egyptian heritage adding a layer of significance to his campaign.

Historical Context and Current Implications

The 1993 World Trade Center bombing remains a pivotal moment in US history, and Hamawy’s involvement in the case has been a focal point of debate. Critics argue that his past connection to Abdel-Rahman, a key figure in the conspiracy, could impact his credibility. However, Hamawy’s campaign has reiterated that he was a witness, not a conspirator, and that his actions in the trial were consistent with his belief in justice.

Israel’s denial of genocide accusations in Gaza, where over 70,000 people were killed since the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, has also shaped the political discourse. Hamawy’s support for Palestinians and his condemnation of Israel’s actions have positioned him as a candidate representing the district’s more radical wing of the Democratic Party. This alignment has drawn both praise and criticism, with some arguing that his views reflect the growing divide within the party.

Despite the controversy, Hamawy’s campaign has framed its success as a testament to the power of progressive unity. “We built a movement that showed the strength of people who refused to wait for permission to fight for what’s right,” he said during his victory speech. His ability to connect with voters through personal stories and policy promises has made him a formidable candidate in a race that could have national implications for the Democratic Party’s strategy in midterm elections.

As the November election approaches, the focus will shift to Hamawy’s ability to maintain his coalition and address concerns about his past. His victory in the primary signals a growing appetite for candidates who challenge the status quo and prioritize social justice over traditional political alliances. Whether this momentum translates into a win in November remains to be seen, but Hamawy’s story has already become a defining moment in the 2026 political season.