As the 2024 election approaches, the role of American Muslims in the political landscape has never been more vital. This newsletter focuses on the importance of mobilizing the Muslim vote and highlights the significant contributions of Muslim officials across the country. Together, we can shape a future that represents our values, ensures our voices are heard, and pushes for meaningful change domestically and globally.
The Power of the Muslim Vote
The American Muslim community represents a growing electoral force, with an estimated 3.45 million Muslims in the U.S., approximately 1% of the population. In battleground states like Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Georgia, the Muslim vote has the potential to tip the scales in critical elections. A 2020 study by the Institute for Social Policy and Understanding (ISPU) reported that over 80% of registered Muslim voters turned out for the presidential election, emphasizing the impact we can have when we mobilize.
Growing Representation: Muslim Elected Officials in the U.S.
Over the last few years, the number of Muslims elected to public office has surged. According to a 2023 report by Jetpac and CAIR, more than 170 Muslims hold elected office across the U.S., with positions ranging from city councils to the U.S. Congress. This significant increase highlights the growing political engagement and influence of the Muslim community. Here are some key officials leading the way:
Federal Level:
Ilhan Omar (D-MN): U.S. Representative for Minnesota’s 5th Congressional District, a trailblazer advocating for immigration reform, social justice, and Palestinian rights.
Rashida Tlaib (D-MI): U.S. Representative for Michigan’s 12th District, known for her activism on Palestinian justice and working-class issues.
Andre Carson (D-IN): U.S. Representative for Indiana’s 7th District, focused on national security, healthcare, and education reform.
State and Local Level:
Abdullah Hammoud: Mayor of Dearborn, Michigan, leading one of the most politically active Muslim communities in the country.
Iman Jodeh: Colorado House of Representatives, the first Muslim lawmaker in the state, advocating for affordable housing and healthcare.
Nida Allam: Durham County Commissioner, North Carolina, a passionate advocate for environmental justice and economic equity.
Zulfat Suara: Nashville Metro Council, the first Muslim woman elected in Tennessee, pushing for affordable housing and fiscal responsibility.
Sam Baydoun: Wayne County Commissioner, Michigan, advocating for infrastructure improvements and services for the elderly.
Shahana Hanif: New York City Council, the first Muslim woman elected to the council, focusing on housing rights, immigrant protections, and disability advocacy.
Shukri Olow: King County Council, Washington, the first Somali Muslim woman elected to the council, focusing on community development and youth engagement.
Omar Fateh: Minnesota State Senator, representing District 62, working on progressive policies related to education and labor rights.
Salman Bhojani: As a member of the Texas House of Representatives, Salman Bhojani focuses on improving public education, healthcare, and economic development in his district while championing diversity and inclusion.
Suleman Lalani: A physician and Texas state representative, Suleman Lalani advocates for affordable healthcare, senior services, and environmental sustainability, representing the growing voice of Muslim leadership in Texas.
Abdulnasser Rashid: A dedicated community organizer and policy expert, Abdulnasser Rashid serves in the Illinois General Assembly, advocating for working families and equitable policies.
Nabeela Syed: Nabeela Syed made history as one of the youngest Muslim women elected to the Illinois State Legislature, championing social justice, healthcare reform, and civil rights.
Sheikh Rahman: Elected as the first Muslim in the Georgia State Senate, Sheikh Rahman represents District 5. He is an advocate for immigrant rights, healthcare access, and economic development, making him a trailblazer for Muslim political representation in Georgia.
Nabila Islam: Recently elected to the Georgia State Senate for District 7, Nabila Islam is a progressive advocate focused on healthcare reform, economic justice, and workers’ rights. She is one of the youngest and most vocal Muslim women in Georgia politics, representing a new generation of political leadership.
*Note: This is not a comprehensive list of all Muslim candidates and representatives across the U.S. With each edition, we will continue to spotlight more Muslim leaders, both at the state and local levels, who are making impactful contributions to their communities. If you know of a Muslim leader or candidate who should be featured, please reach out to us, and we’d be happy to highlight their work in future editions.
Spotlight on Strong Muslim Political Communities
What Can You Do?
Get Registered: Ensure you and your family are registered to vote. If you’ve recently moved, double-check your voter registration status. Use our tool below to get started.
Stay Informed: Follow credible news sources and platforms to learn more about candidates and their positions on key issues.
Organize: Join or create a local voter registration drive in your mosque or community center.
Advocate: Meet with elected officials and let them know what matters to you, whether it’s healthcare, Palestine, education, or civil rights.
