Seven Muslim lawmakers elected to US Congress in historic gains
Muslim representation in the US Congress expanded following the midterm elections, with at least seven candidates winning seats in the Senate and House of Representatives. Michigan Democrat Abdul El-Sayed made history as the first Muslim elected to the US Senate, while several incumbent Muslim lawmakers secured re-election.
Historic breakthrough in the Senate
At least seven Muslim lawmakers were elected to the US Congress in Tuesday’s midterm elections, marking a significant expansion of Muslim representation in American politics.
The results came as Democrats secured control of both the Senate and the House of Representatives, shifting the balance of power in Washington.
Among the newly elected lawmakers, Abdul El-Sayed of Michigan made history by becoming the first Muslim elected to the US Senate.
The 42-year-old Democrat defeated Republican candidate Mike Rogers in the race for the seat being vacated by retiring Senator Gary Peters.
A physician and former public health official, El-Sayed faced criticism over his Muslim faith during the campaign, including attacks from Republicans and President Donald Trump.
His campaign also focused on US foreign policy, particularly American military support for Israel. El-Sayed criticised unconditional arms transfers to Israel and described its military operations in Gaza as genocide.
New Muslim representatives enter Congress
In New Jersey, Democrat Adam Hamawy defeated Republican Gregg Mele in the 12th Congressional District, becoming the first Muslim elected to represent the state in Congress.
The 56-year-old plastic surgeon, retired US Army combat physician and Iraq War veteran volunteered at the European Hospital in Gaza in 2024.
His campaign focused on healthcare reform, universal Medicare, the cancellation of medical and student debt, immigration enforcement and ending US military assistance to Israel.
In New York, Democrat Darializa Avila Chevalier also secured a seat in the House of Representatives after defeating longtime incumbent Adriano Espaillat in the Democratic primary in June.
Chevalier, a civil rights investigator, doctoral student and convert to Islam, received more than 85% of the vote. Her campaign emphasised community organising and advocacy for Palestinian rights.
Four Muslim lawmakers retain House seats
Four incumbent Muslim members of the House of Representatives also won re-election, maintaining their positions in Congress.
Palestinian-American Democrat Rashida Tlaib secured a fifth term representing Michigan’s 12th Congressional District after defeating Republican James Hooper.
Tlaib, the only Palestinian-American member of Congress, has advocated for civilian protection, Palestinian self-determination and stricter oversight of US arms transfers.
Minnesota Democrat Ilhan Omar also won a fifth term in the state's 5th Congressional District, defeating Republican John Nagel and independent candidate DeVelle Jackson.
Omar, who arrived in the United States at the age of 12, became the first Somali-American federal lawmaker when she entered Congress in 2019. Her political work has included calls for humanitarian assistance and greater oversight of American arms transfers.
In Indiana, Democrat Andre Carson retained his Indianapolis-based 7th Congressional District seat. Serving in Congress since 2008, Carson is the longest-serving Muslim member of the House of Representatives.
His political priorities have included international legal institutions, human dignity and humanitarian assistance.
California Democrat Lateefah Simon also retained her seat in the House, representing the state's 12th Congressional District in the East Bay. She defeated fellow Democrat Jamie Joyce and has advocated against offensive US arms deliveries.
Vote counting continues in California
Meanwhile, Muslim candidate Aisha Wahab maintained an early lead in a separate congressional race in California as vote counting continued.
The election results highlight the growing presence of Muslim lawmakers in American political institutions, with the newly elected and returning representatives expected to participate in congressional debates on civil rights, healthcare, foreign policy and US relations with the Middle East.
Source:AA
