Kenyan-American Huldah Momanyi Hiltsley wins Minnesota House seat

Kenyan-born Huldah Momanyi Hiltsley. [Courtesy]

Kenyan-born Huldah Momanyi Hiltsley has made history by winning a seat in the Minnesota House of Representatives with over 64 percent of the vote.

Hiltsley competed against Wynfred Russell, a Liberian-born community leader and former Brooklyn Park City Council member. 

In her acceptance speech, Hiltsley stated, "I stand here as the first Kenyan-born person ever elected in the U.S. This victory belongs to all of us; it is a testament to the resilience and strength of immigrants."

Her victory marks a major milestone, making her one of the few African-born immigrants to reach this level of political office in the United States.

Originally from Nyamira County, Kenya, Hiltsley moved to Minnesota at age nine and has since built a strong reputation in public service and community advocacy.

Her campaign prioritized key issues such as public safety, equitable housing, and healthcare access, resonating with a diverse electorate that includes a large immigrant population.

Her grassroots approach and strategic voter outreach were instrumental to her success.

Running under the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party, Hiltsley will represent the communities of southwestern Brooklyn Park and Osseo.

Her win is seen as a significant step forward for immigrant representation in U.S. politics, especially in Minnesota, where many communities of colour feel underrepresented in government.