Moderate Democratic Rep. Ed Case, D-Hawaii, secured his spot for a likely sixth full term in the House of Representatives after fending off a primary challenger in the state’s elections on Saturday. Case, who has represented Hawaii’s 1st Congressional District since 2018, first entered Congress in 2002 after winning a special election to fill the seat of the late Rep. Patsy Mink.
In a surprising move last month, Case was one of many House Democrats who called on President Biden to drop out of the 2024 presidential race, citing concerns about the 81-year-old leader’s ability to serve another term. Despite this, Case emphasized that his decision was based on Biden’s age and not his character or record.
Known for his success in crowded primary elections, Case faced just one challenger, Cecil Hale, in this election cycle. With nearly $120,000 in individual contributions and $260,000 cash on hand, Case’s victory in November seems likely. His opponent, Republican Patrick Largey, is running unopposed for the Republican nomination.
Hawaii, a solidly blue state with both congressional districts and Senate seats held by Democrats, remains a stronghold for the left despite challenges like the high cost of living. Case’s victory is seen as a positive sign for House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who is working to flip the House to a Democratic majority.
As the election season heats up, Case’s win sets the stage for an interesting race in November, with both parties vying for control of the House of Representatives.
