Why nearly 100 Muslims won national, local races in the US midterm elections

At least 97 Muslim Americans won federal, state and local races in the US midterm elections, setting a record, according to the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR). The results matter amid rising anti-Muslim rhetoric and concerns about voter intimidation, and follow a year in which Muslim voter registration increased.

Six Muslim Americans are headed to the House, including incumbents Ilhan Omar, Rashida Tlaib, Andre Carson and Lateefah Simon, alongside newcomers Adam Hamawy and Darializa Avila Chevalier. Abdul El-Sayed won a Senate seat; another House race was still undecided at the time of reporting. CAIR also counted 39 winners in other statewide offices, 16 in county and municipal roles, and 27 on education and school boards. Muslims make up about one per cent of the US population; a survey cited in the article found registration had risen at least 25 per cent and 93 per cent turnout among respondents.