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Generation Z and diversity redefine US politics in groundbreaking election
The 2026 US midterms saw diverse candidates win office and Melat Kiros become the first Generation Z woman elected to Congress. The result marks a generational milestone and a sharp shift among younger voters towards Democrats, with many using their vote to oppose President Donald Trump.
Kiros, 29, was born in Ethiopia and beat 30-year incumbent Diana DeGette in the Democratic primary for a Colorado seat. Of 117 Gen Z candidates who ran for Congress, 24 reached the general-election ballot. About seven in 10 voters under 30 backed Democratic House candidates, though this age group made up only around one in 10 voters; young voters also shifted towards Democrats in Senate races where the party gained seats, including Texas, Iowa and Ohio.
In short
- Melat Kiros became the first Gen Z woman elected to Congress.
- Around seven in 10 voters under 30 backed Democratic House candidates.
- Young voters made up about one in 10 of the electorate.
Americas Elections Government Politics World