Aisha Wahab is running for California’s 14th District in a special election, making history as the first Afghan American in state office.
Muslim American candidates are running for re-election or first-time office amid threats from the Trump administration era, with focus on Gaza policy and domestic issues like healthcare and wages. Notables include Abdul El-Sayed in Michigan, Adam Hamawy in New Jersey, and Aisha Wahab in California. Some incumbents like Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib are seeking re-election. One Somali mayor in Maine has decided not to seek re-election due to harassment.