Ed Case Wins Democratic Primary in Hawaii Despite Criticism Over Israel Support
Case defeated progressive state senator Jarrett Keohokalole. During the campaign, Case faced criticism for his support of military aid to Israel. The victory of the moderate candidate comes against the backdrop of a series of achievements for the progressive camp in the party.
Congressman Ed Case won the Democratic Party primary on Saturday in Hawaii's first congressional district, defeating progressive state senator Jarrett Keohokalole. In doing so, Case, a 73-year-old moderate Democrat, managed to block another attempt by the party's progressive wing to oust an incumbent public official.
The contest in Hawaii took place against the backdrop of the ongoing ideological struggle within the Democratic Party between candidates identified with the establishment and the political center, and progressive candidates seeking to change the party's direction. In recent weeks, progressive candidates have recorded achievements in primaries in various states, and the race in Hawaii was seen as another test of their strength against veteran public officials.
During the campaign, Keohokalole attacked Case for his support of providing military aid to Israel and for his vote in favor of an early version of the SAVE Act, an initiative supported by President Donald Trump. Case was one of only three Democrats in the House of Representatives who voted for that version of the bill, but he later clarified that he does not support its updated version.
Case won about 57% of the vote, compared to about 34% for Keohokalole — a gap of about 23 percentage points. The victory was declared after it became clear that Case's lead was insurmountable.
In the general elections to be held in November, Case will face Republican candidate Adriel Lam, who won the Republican primary unopposed. Due to the district's strong Democratic leaning, Case is considered the favorite to retain his seat.
At the same time, Hawaii Governor Josh Green won the Democratic primary for governor, after defeating three candidates. In the Republican primary, Gary Cordery won. The two will face each other in the general election in November, as Green seeks to be elected for another term in a state considered a Democratic stronghold.
