New Jersey Primary Election Results
A pro-Palestinian plastic surgeon from New Jersey, who previously testified in a significant terrorist attack case involving a convicted Muslim cleric, has successfully won the state’s primary election.
Adam Hisham Hamawi, originally from Egypt and a former army medic, emerged victorious in the 12th Democratic primary, which is known to lean heavily Democratic, according to reports.
Hamawi is now viewed as a likely successor to the retiring Rep. Bonnie Watson-Coleman from Trenton. His campaign has garnered support from the Democratic Party’s far-left faction.
Despite the scrutiny surrounding his past connections to Sheikh Omar Abdel Rahman, who was found guilty of inciting the World Trade Center bombing in 1993, Hamawi continues to navigate his political journey. Rahman, often referred to as the “Blind Sheikh,” held significant influence among al-Qaeda operatives.
During his time as a witness for the defense at Rahman’s trial, many questioned Hamawi’s involvement. Andrew McCarthy, a Fox News contributor who was a lead prosecutor in the case, remarked that Hamawi’s testimony, intended to aid the defense, ended up reinforcing the prosecution’s arguments.
Hamawi’s campaign has addressed concerns surrounding his past connections by labeling them as mere “association” without any wrongdoing on his part. He has not faced criminal charges related to these ties.
In addition to his controversial background, he has also been questioned about a brief volunteering stint in 1994 with a now-defunct group linked to al-Qaeda.
Hamawi’s candidacy has received endorsements from key progressive figures like Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, as well as financial backing from a pro-Palestinian super PAC, American Priorities.
The district he aims to represent is considered a safe seat for Democrats in New Jersey, reflecting a shift away from the narrow margin that President Trump had in 2024.
In a crowded primary field, Hamawi faces little opposition, although Plainfield Mayor Adrian Mapp has labeled him an “extremist.” Congressman Josh Gottheimer also voiced serious concerns regarding Hamawi’s associations with individuals linked to terrorism.
Activist Sue Altman, who previously lost an election to a Republican in a neighboring district, is among the other candidates in the race. She recently gained support from several prominent Democratic figures.
Additionally, Illinois Senator Tammy Duckworth acknowledged Hamawi’s role in saving lives during a military deployment in 2004 and during a recent humanitarian effort in Gaza.
Hamawi expressed frustration about the violence he witnessed against medical professionals during his humanitarian visit, implying criticism towards the Israeli government’s actions.
