Abe Hamadeh wins Republican primary for Arizona's eighth Congressional district

Abe Hamadeh narrowly defeated his biggest rival Blake Masters in the Republican primaries for Arizona's eighth Congressional district.

Hamadeh, who was endorsed by former President Donald Trump alongside Masters, secured 29.8 percent of the vote according to the Associated Press, and will face Gregory Whitten in November. Masters came in second with 25.3 percent of the vote.

The candidates are running to replace Rep. Debbie Lesko, R-Ariz., who is not seeking reelection. Hamadeh previously ran for state attorney general in 2022, but lost to Democrat Kris Mayes.

Hamadeh claimed victory on Wednesday night, nearly 24 hours after polls had closed, and thanked people for their support. 

"They underestimated me because they underestimate the American people. We are stronger than they can ever even imagine," Hamadeh posted to X. "Thank you Arizona, the grassroots, Kari Lake, President Trump, and so many others who had my back. The good guys still have a shot… let’s roll."

Trump endorsed both Masters and Hamadeh over the weekend, despite initially endorsing Hamadeh in December, claiming both are "true warrior[s]" who will work to help grow the economy, stop inflation, secure the border, and end migrant crime.

"Blake Masters is a very successful businessman, and an incredibly strong supporter of our Movement to Make America Great Again - He is smart and tough! Likewise, Abe Hamadeh, a Veteran, former prosecutor, and fearless fighter for Election Integrity, has been with me all the way!" Trump posted on Truth Social.

"They will both be spectacular, and I’m pleased to announce that both Blake Masters and Abe Hamadeh have my Complete and Total Endorsement to be the next Congressman of Arizona’s 8th Congressional District," he added.

Misty Severi is an evening news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.