Egyptian-American Trauma Surgeon Adam Hamawy Projected to Win New Jersey Congressional Seat

Adam Hamawy, an Egyptian-American Democrat who previously volunteered as a surgeon in Gaza during Israel's conflict there, is projected to secure a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives representing New Jersey. He is set to defeat Republican Gregg Mele. As of Tuesday evening, AP reported that Mr. Hamawy had garnered 74 percent of the vote, leading to the race being called.

Born in Egypt, Mr. Hamawy relocated to Old Bridge Township, New Jersey, with his family as an infant. A former combat surgeon in the army, he served during the Iraq war and is recognized for saving the life of fellow soldier Senator Tammy Duckworth in 2004 after her helicopter was downed. Mr. Hamawy also dedicated his time as a humanitarian trauma surgeon in Gaza during 2024 and 2025. His campaign website indicates prior volunteer work treating patients in various locations including Syria, Lebanon, Sudan, Jordan, Turkey, Bosnia, Haiti, Belize, and Colombia.

Mr. Hamawy has been vocal in his opposition to the war with Iran and has advocated for the cessation of U.S. aid to Israel. New Jersey is home to a significant Arab-American population, estimated at around 180,000. If other Muslim representatives retain their seats, Mr. Hamawy would become one of five Muslims in the House of Representatives and the first individual of Egyptian descent to hold such a position. Democrats were anticipated to win multiple races in the midterm elections, potentially making substantial gains in Congress. Currently, the House of Representatives is narrowly controlled by Republicans with a majority of 218-214 over Democrats.