Rep. Ed Case (D-Hawaii) has won his Democratic primary, according to Decision Desk HQ, beating back a challenge from the left that had sought to end his long congressional career.
Case, a moderate Democrat who has often broken with his party's progressive wing, defeated state Sen. Jarrett Keohokalole, a 42-year-old who ran on a promise to bring a “new generation” of leadership to Washington. Keohokalole, who had the backing of some local progressive groups, attacked Case for his voting record, including his support for a voter ID bill that was a priority for former President Trump.
The victory sets up a November matchup with Republican Adriel Lam in the safely Democratic 1st District, which covers urban Honolulu and surrounding areas. Case, 73, has represented the district since 2019, after previously serving Hawaii's 2nd District from 2002 to 2007.
Case's renomination comes as several of his Democratic colleagues have been ousted by progressive challengers in other states, including in Colorado and New York. But in Hawaii, Case's incumbency and his emphasis on seniority proved decisive.
During the campaign, Keohokalole argued that Case was out of step with the district's progressive values, pointing to his vote last year on the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act. Case was one of four Democrats to support the bill, which would require proof of citizenship for federal voter registration. He defended the vote, saying the version he backed allowed for alternatives, including simply attesting to citizenship.
Case also leaned on his experience, telling Hawaii Public Radio that “in Congress seniority matters.” He noted his role on the House Appropriations Committee helped secure federal aid during the pandemic and the Maui and Red Hill water crises.
Keohokalole, a first-term state senator, had hoped to tap into voter frustration with incumbents, but Case countered that his record and relationships were assets. “The more you’re here, the more influence you have, the more relationships you have, the more know-how you have,” he said.
With the primary behind him, Case now turns to the general election, where he is heavily favored to win a fourth consecutive term. His victory is a reminder that while progressive energy remains potent in some races, incumbents with strong local ties and a moderate record can still hold their ground.
