Aber Kawas Makes History as First Palestinian American Elected to New York State Legislature

Palestinian-American Democrat Aber Kawas has won a seat in the New York State Senate, making history as the first Palestinian American elected to the New York State Legislature.

Kawas defeated Republican candidate Han-Khon To in the November 3, 2026 election for New York’s 12th Senate District, which covers parts of Queens. Her victory marks a significant milestone for Palestinian-American representation in American politics. She is also reported to be the first hijab-wearing woman elected to New York’s state legislature.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, to Palestinian parents who immigrated to the United States in the 1990s, Kawas is a community organiser and member of the Democratic Socialists of America. Before entering electoral politics, she spent more than 15 years advocating for workers’ rights, immigrant communities and Palestinian rights.

Her interest in activism was influenced partly by her family’s experience with the US immigration system. During her teenage years, her father was detained by immigration authorities and later deported to Jordan.

During her campaign, Kawas highlighted issues including affordable housing, healthcare, public transportation, climate action and immigrant protections.

She also advocated for Palestinian rights and called for changes to US policies concerning Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories. Her campaign received endorsements from several prominent political figures, including New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, Senator Bernie Sanders and Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib.

Following the announcement of her victory, Kawas celebrated on social media with the message, “We made history.” She secured approximately 75 per cent of the vote when early results were reported, according to election coverage.

Her election adds to a wider wave of victories by Arab-American, Muslim and Palestinian-American candidates in the 2026 US midterm elections. Kawas will now represent New York’s 12th Senate District in Albany, bringing her years of community organising experience into the state legislature.