Ed Case Wins Hawaii Democratic Primary Despite Criticism Over Israel Support

Ed Case, a moderate Democratic congressman, won the Democratic primary for Hawaii's 1st Congressional District on August 8, 2026, defeating progressive state senator Jarrett Keohokalole. Case secured about 57% of the vote compared to Keohokalole's 34%, a decisive margin that ended the progressive faction's attempt to unseat an incumbent in the district. The primary contest highlighted the ongoing ideological struggle within the Democratic Party between establishment moderates and progressive challengers.

During the campaign, Keohokalole criticized Case for supporting military aid to Israel and for voting in favor of an earlier version of the SAVE Act, a bill initially backed by former President Donald Trump. Case was one of only three House Democrats to support that version but later clarified he did not back the updated bill. Despite this criticism, Case's victory was seen as a win for the moderate wing of the party.

Looking ahead, Case will face Republican Adriel Laam, who won the GOP primary unopposed. Given the district's strong Democratic leaning, Case is favored to retain his seat in the November general election. Meanwhile, in the Hawaii gubernatorial race, Democratic Governor Josh Green won his primary against three challengers and will face Republican Gary Cordery in November, with Green seeking re-election in a predominantly Democratic state.