Adam Hamawy Wins Democratic Primary in New Jersey’s 12th Congressional District
Adam Hamawy, a former Army combat surgeon and first responder during 9/11, recently secured victory in the Democratic primary for New Jersey’s 12th Congressional District. His campaign is particularly notable due to his past connection with a convicted Islamist terrorist.
Hamawy’s support from prominent figures, including Sen. Bernie Sanders, Rep. Ilhan Omar, and others, helped him surpass 12 competitors to fill the position left by retiring Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman.
In terms of funding, Hamawy led the race, bolstered by pro-Palestinian super PACs that invested around $2 million into his campaign.
He has faced considerable criticism due to his past relationship with Omar Abdelrahman, often referred to as the “Blind Sheikh.” Hamawy provided defense testimony in the 1995 trial that resulted in Abdelrahman’s life imprisonment.
During that trial, a young Hamawy was called by the defense to assert that Abdelrahman did not recruit individuals to assassinate then-Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak. However, court documents reveal details of Abdelrahman allegedly inciting an FBI informant to plan Mubarak’s assassination.
When pressed in court, Hamawy denied hearing Abdelrahman mention such plans or even Mubarak’s name during key conversations.
Furthermore, he recalled attending a conference where “jihad” was a recurring topic, acknowledging the discussions centered around holy wars and the perspective that the U.S. and Israel were adversaries of Islam.
Abdelrahman was found guilty of various serious charges, including conspiracy to assassinate Mubarak. Evidence presented during the trial implicated him in plots against significant U.S. sites as well.
Andrew McCarthy, a lead prosecutor, commented that Hamawy’s testimony inadvertently strengthened the prosecution’s narrative regarding a jihadist plot, rather than aiding Abdelrahman’s defense.
Hamawy’s campaign has been described as tarnished by his “association” with terrorism. Additionally, he received backlash for his work in Gaza, which is seen as a Hamas stronghold.
During a three-week stint at a hospital in Gaza, Hamawy claimed there were no signs of direct conflict. However, shortly after his return, significant events unfolded involving Hamas leaders and Israeli forces in areas he had recently worked in.
Hamawy has also been connected to other controversies, such as volunteering in Bosnia with organizations that have alleged ties to extremist funding networks. He hasn’t faced any legal charges related to terrorism, but the scrutiny continues.
Looking ahead, he’s set to challenge Republican Greg Mele in the upcoming general election, with many viewing it as a solid Democratic seat.
