07/24/2026
Phoenix physician and Navy veteran Zuhdi Jasser wins Republican nomination in Arizona’s 4th District
Dr. M. Zuhdi Jasser, a Phoenix internist, U.S. Navy veteran and longtime advocate for Muslim reform, has secured the Republican nomination for Arizona’s 4th Congressional District after advancing from the July 21, 2026, primary. He will face the Democratic nominee in the November general election.
Jasser, a first-generation American whose parents fled Syria’s Baath regime, is a devout Muslim. In 2003 he co-founded the American Islamic Forum for Democracy, which promotes separation of mosque and state and opposes political Islam. The following year he helped establish the Center for Islamic Pluralism, a think tank focused on challenging Islamist influence in the United States. He has also served on the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom and authored a book on reforming Islam from within.
Supporters highlight his military service, medical career and consistent criticism of groups such as the Muslim Brotherhood and organizations they view as insufficiently committed to American constitutional principles. Some conservative activists, however, have expressed reservations about nominating a devout Muslim, citing broader concerns over national security, cultural assimilation and potential divided loyalties in a district that includes parts of the Phoenix metro area.Jasser’s campaign has emphasized border security, constitutional fidelity and “America First” priorities. The race is expected to draw national attention as both parties contest control of the House.