By Michael Hernandez
WASHINGTON (AA) – Ilhan Omar is on track to be one of the first Muslim women in Congress after winning the Democratic primary in Minnesota's fifth congressional district.
The seat Omar is running for was formerly held by Rep. Keith Ellison who did not run for re-election as he is seeking the state attorney generalship. Ellison is the first Muslim to take a seat in Congress, and won his primary as well Tuesday night.
“Today is about more than winning, it's about building a coalition to fight the politics of fear and scarcity, ” she wrote in a tweet on Tuesday. “I'm a legislator, a refugee, and a working mom. But above all, I'm an organizer. And I'm ready to organize for the America we deserve. I'm asking you to join me. ”
Omar is a Somali-American who came to the U.S. over two decades ago as a refugee. She campaigned on a progressive platform and won the endorsement of the Democratic Party's fledging progressive wing, including Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
“Sister @IlhanMN just WON her Minnesota primary, while outspent as well! 💪🏽💜, ” Ocasio-Cortez wrote on Twitter. “She and @RashidaTlaib will be the first Muslim Congresswomen in US history, both elected this year. Congratulations Ilhan, you inspire me. I am so proud to join hands with you to November and beyond. ”
Rashida Tlaib, whom Ocasio-Cortez was referring to, is running unopposed for Michigan's thirteenth congressional district after winning her Democratic primary. Barring an unlikely major write-in campaign, Tlaib's seat in Congress is all but guaranteed.
But Omar will have to compete against Republican Jennifer Zielinski in order to win her seat in the House of Representatives.
“Let's continue to celebrate and bring our joy and hope to the campaign trail tomorrow, ” Omar told supporters shortly after her victory.
Midterm elections will take place Nov. 6.
