Seven candidates with roots in Africa are seeking congressional seats in the US midterm elections on November 3. They are among dozens of new entrants vying for seats as lawmakers leave Capitol Hill through resignations, retirements, or bids for other offices. The elections may break several representation barriers, with a record 26 women contesting gubernatorial positions.
Ndidiamaka “Didi” Okpareke, a Nigerian-American, is running as a Republican against Democratic incumbent Melanie Stansbury in New Mexico’s 1st Congressional District. Born in California to Nigerian immigrant parents, Okpareke grew up with stories of hardship and migration. She is campaigning on affordability, economic opportunity, healthcare costs, and government support for low-income households.
Okpareke, 43, is a pharmacist and small-business owner seeking to become the first Black woman to represent New Mexico in the House of Representatives. Her candidacy is notable for her Nigerian heritage and Republican affiliation, differing from the typical profile of immigrant-origin and Black women candidates who often run as Democrats.
Other African-origin candidates include El-Sayed, 41, contesting a Michigan Senate seat. Born to Egyptian immigrant parents, El-Sayed is a public health academic who could become the first Muslim member of the US Senate if elected. He has campaigned on progressive policies, including universal healthcare and the abolition of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency.
In Colorado, Melat Kiros, 29, is seeking to represent Denver in the House of Representatives. Born in Addis Ababa to Tigrayan parents, Kiros defeated a 15-term Democratic incumbent in the party’s June primary. She has campaigned against entrenched political interests and money in politics.
Three African-origin lawmakers currently serving in the US House are also seeking re-election. Ilhan Omar, 44, became the first Somali-American elected to Congress in 2018. Born in Mogadishu, she spent part of her childhood in a Kenyan refugee camp. Her re-election campaign comes amid renewed political attacks from President Donald Trump.
The growing presence of African-origin lawmakers and candidates in US politics may have implications beyond representation, particularly for debates on immigration, foreign policy, trade, and Washington’s relationship with African countries. The elections will offer another measure of the diaspora’s growing political influence in the United States.
Key points
- Seven candidates of African descent are seeking congressional seats in the US midterm elections.
- Nigerian-American Didi Okparake is running as a Republican in New Mexico’s 1st Congressional District.
- The elections may break several representation barriers, with a record 26 women contesting gubernatorial positions.
