Kenyan-born Lawmaker Huldah Momanyi-Hiltsley Wins Landslide Second Term in Minnesota

Kenyan-born politician Huldah Momanyi-Hiltsley has won a decisive re-election victory in the Minnesota House of Representatives, capturing nearly 72 per cent of the vote in District 38A.

According to unofficial results released by the Minnesota Secretary of State, the Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) incumbent secured 9,852 votes. Her Republican challenger, Charlie Kistler, trailed with 3,840 votes, or 28 per cent.

The commanding performance marks a substantial increase from her debut election in 2024, where she won with roughly 65 per cent of the vote against Brad Olson. Once the results are officially certified, Momanyi-Hiltsley will begin her second two-year term in January 2027.

Reflecting on the outcome, Momanyi-Hiltsley expressed deep appreciation for her supporters. “You have sent me back to the Minnesota House! I am so grateful for your trust, your votes, and the incredible work of every volunteer and supporter,” she said in a statement. “It is an honour to serve you, and I am ready to get to work for our community.”

Prior to the final tally, she also acknowledged the broader stakes of the campaign. “The polls are closed! But as we wait for the numbers, I want to show my profound gratitude to everyone who had a part to play in this election season, in this fight for our democracy! No matter what happens, I am grateful,” she noted.

Representing Osseo and parts of Brooklyn Park, Momanyi-Hiltsley made history in November 2024 as the first Kenyan-born immigrant elected to any state legislature in the United States. Her continued success has generated immense pride in Kenya, particularly in Nyamira County within the Gusii region, where she was born to parents Philip and Tabitha Momanyi.

She moved to the United States with her family in the 1990s when she was nine years old. Settling in Minnesota, she attended Cooper High School before pursuing higher education at Bethel University, where she earned a bachelor's degree followed by a Master of Business Administration in Global Business Management.

Before entering elective politics, Momanyi-Hiltsley built a career as a business executive and community advocate. She served as president of Mwanyagetinge, a prominent Minnesota-based Kenyan diaspora organisation, where she championed the welfare of Kenyans living abroad. Her commitment to social justice and community development previously earned her local recognition, including the Morrill Hall and Rachel Tilsen Social Justice Award.

Looking ahead to her next legislative term, Momanyi-Hiltsley's platform focuses on economic opportunity, public safety, and essential services for working families. Her key legislative priorities include expanding healthcare access, defending reproductive rights, strengthening gun violence prevention measures, and promoting equitable and affordable housing across Minnesota.