First Muslim Woman Poised to Join US Congress
Washington, DC: Former Michigan state lawmaker Rashida Tlaib on Tuesday won the Democratic nomination to run unopposed for a House seat, setting her up to become the first Muslim woman elected to the United States Congress.
No Republicans or third-party candidates ran in Tuesday’s District 13 primary race, meaning Tlaib is set to win the seat in November’s election. She would take the spot held since 1965 by John Conyers, who stepped down in December citing health reasons amid charges of sexual harassment.
A special primary race to serve the last two months of Conyers’ term is still too close to call. Tlaib and Detroit City Council President Brenda Jones are neck and neck. The winner of that race will also run unopposed in November’s election.
Tlaib, who is of Palestinian descent, has previously said that her decision to run was prompted by increasing attacks against American-Muslims and immigrants.
“I didn’t run because my election would be historic,” Tlaib said, adding, “I ran because of injustices and because of my boys, who are questioning their [Muslim] identity and whether they belong. I’ve never been one to stand on the sidelines.”
Tlaib’s win means she will be the third Muslim to serve in the US House of Representatives this year, alongside Democratic Representatives Keith Ellison of Minnesota and Andre Carson of Indiana.
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