UMVA has learned that a pro-Palestinian plastic surgeon in New Jersey has won a major upset in the state's primary election, securing a spot in the House of Representatives. Adam Hisham Hamawy, a former Army combat medic born in Egypt, emerged victorious in a 12-way Democratic primary contest for a solidly blue House seat.
Hamawy's campaign was marked by controversy, with critics questioning his ties to Sheikh Omar Abdel Rahman, a convicted Islamic cleric who was behind the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. Despite this, Hamawy testified as a witness for the defense in Abdel Rahman's trial, sparking concerns about his judgment.
However, Hamawy's campaign received a significant boost from progressive heavyweights, including Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. A pro-Palestinian super PAC also poured resources into the campaign, helping Hamawy secure the nomination.
Fox News contributor Andrew McCarthy, who prosecuted Abdel Rahman, offered a nuanced assessment of Hamawy's testimony, saying it ultimately bolstered the government's case against the cleric. Hamawy's campaign has denied any wrongdoing, characterizing criticism of his past affiliations as "guilt-by-association" shaming.
Hamawy faced further scrutiny over his ties to a now-shuttered al Qaeda-linked front group in Eastern Europe, which he briefly volunteered for in 1994. Despite these controversies, Hamawy's progressive credentials and endorsements helped him build a strong grassroots base.
Not everyone is celebrating Hamawy's victory, however. Rep. Josh Gottheimer expressed "deep concerns" about Hamawy's associations with terrorist organizations and leaders who have attacked America. Activist Sue Altman, who lost to a Republican incumbent in 2024, also criticized Hamawy, questioning his suitability for office.
In a notable show of support, Sen. Tammy Duckworth credited Hamawy with saving her life on an overseas deployment to the Middle East in 2004. Hamawy, in turn, credited Duckworth with helping secure his evacuation in 2024 after his medical mission was reportedly trapped by a closed border crossing near Khan Younis, Gaza.
Hamawy's win sets up a general election contest in a district considered safely Democratic. While some opponents have raised concerns about his past, Hamawy's supporters argue that his progressive credentials and personal story make him a strong candidate for the House.
