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 approximately 57% of the vote compared to Keohokalole's 34%, a margin of about 23 points, effectively ending the progressive challenge to his incumbency. 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 his support of 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 endorse the updated bill. Despite the progressive wing's recent successes in other states' primaries, Case's victory marked a win for the moderate faction in Hawaii.

Looking ahead to the November general election, 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. Meanwhile, in the gubernatorial primaries, Democratic Governor Josh Green won his party's nomination against three challengers, while Republican Gary Cordery secured his party's nomination. Green and Cordery will compete in the November general election, with Green seeking a second term in a predominantly Democratic state.