What a time for Democrats, immigrants, and Muslim representation in American politics.
In the Nov. 3 midterm election, Democrats won control over both chambers of Congress, overcoming Republican majorities in the House and Senate, setting up two years of divided government for Donald Trump’s second term as president.
The election brought a shocking turn of events in strong Republican-holding states such as Texas, Kansas, and South Carolina, to name a few.
Beyond the political shift in Washington, D.C., though, what was most intriguing about this year’s midterm election was the diversity reflected across the ballot and a historic expansion of Muslim presence in American government.
For the first time in American history, a Muslim was elected to the U.S. Senate. Born and raised in Michigan, Democrat Abdul El-Sayed made history with his victory, joining a record number of Muslim Americans elected to Congress. El-Sayed’s father was an Egyptian immigrant and his stepmother was a native Michigander. He earned his undergraduate degree at the University of Michigan, medical degree at Columbia University, and doctorate from Oxford University.
At least seven Muslim lawmakers secured seats in the House and Senate, including newly elected representatives Darializa Avila Chevalier, who defeated incumbent Adriano Espaillat in the Democratic primary to take New York’s 13th Congressional District, and Adam Hamawy, who will succeed Bonnie Watson Colmen in New Jersey’s 12th Congressional District.
For communities that have historically faced political marginalization, these victories represent more than another election cycle. The newly elected figures represent far more visibility, recognition, and an opportunity to have their voices heard in the institutions responsible for shaping American policy — and most importantly, hope.
How does this affect the broader immigrant experience in the US?
According to the Pew Research Center, 53.3 million immigrants lived in the United States in January 2025, the largest number ever recorded. However, in the months after, more immigrants left the country or were deported than came.
This election may change that, starting with seeing people from these backgrounds sitting in these government seats. The growing presence of Muslims in government offers an opportunity to bring greater attention to communities that have often felt excluded from political conversations.
From immigration policies to religious freedom and civil rights, representation can help ensure that communities such as these are not overlooked. Having lawmakers who understand these experiences firsthand can also challenge the idea that American identity belongs to one particular religion, ethnicity, or background.
In a recent interview on CBS News’ 60 Minutes, when asked about his immigration policy, President Donald Trump admitted that he believes the policy was flawed. “A lot of people think it’s great but a lot of people think it’s too tough,” Trump said.
There is hope that the integration of the newly elected House and Senate members will work to tackle the immigration policy that’s currently in place.
Question of Islamophobia remains
After the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, Muslim Americans experienced increased scrutiny, discrimination, and hostility, with many facing assumptions about their religion and national identity. The Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice reported more than 800 incidents since 9/11 involving violence, threats, vandalism, and arson against Arab-Americans, South Asians, Muslims, and others perceived to be of Middle Eastern origin.
Over the years, these attitudes have also found their way into political discourse. Muslim politicians have faced questions about their loyalty, religious beliefs, and place in American society, often being subjected to criticism that extends beyond their political positions. Historic victories of Muslim candidates came amid an increasingly hostile political environment. El-Sayed faced Islamophobic attacks during his campaign, demonstrating that even candidates seeking the highest levels of political office are not exempt from religious discrimination.
For New York City, this experience began with its first Muslim mayor, Zohran Mamdani.
Does more Muslim Americans in government mean the end of Islamophobia?
Not necessarily.
While representation is an important step toward political inclusion, it does not automatically translate into social acceptance. Electing Muslim officials does not erase years of discrimination, nor does it guarantee that Muslim communities will no longer face prejudice. However, it does challenge the narrative that Muslims do not belong in American political institutions, and immigrants as well.
Moving forward, the responsibility cannot fall on Muslim elected officials to change how their communities are perceived. It requires everyone from all figures of power, including political leaders, institutions, and the public, to challenge discriminatory rhetoric, protect religious freedoms, and recognize the diversity that has always existed in American society.
This election may not mark the end of Islamophobia, or immigration, but it does offer a glimpse into what a more representative America can look like. Ultimately, the measure of progress would not simply just be how many Muslim Americans are elected to office, but whether future generations can participate in American society without having to fight for acceptance and recognition.
