Kenyan-born politician Huldah Momanyi-Hiltsley has won re-election to the Minnesota House of Representatives.
According to unofficial results released by the Minnesota Secretary of State, Momanyi-Hiltsley received 9,852 votes, representing 71.8 per cent of the vote, while her Republican challenger, Charlie Kistler, received 3,840 votes, or 28 per cent. The results remain subject to official certification. Her new two-year term is scheduled to begin in January 2027.
She thanked those who played a role in what she described as a fight for democracy, adding that she remained grateful regardless of the outcome.
“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 said.
Momanyi-Hiltsley was first elected to the seat in the 2024 general election. She became the first Kenyan American to serve in the Minnesota House of Representatives and the first Kenyan-born immigrant to be elected to any state legislature in the United States. She is a member of the Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) Party.
In a statement following the results, Momanyi-Hiltsley expressed gratitude to voters and 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. It is an honour to serve you, and I am ready to get to work for our community,” she said.
Her 2026 campaign focused on increasing healthcare access, defending reproductive rights, advancing firearms legislation and promoting fair housing.
Momanyi-Hiltsley was born in Kenya to Philip and Tabitha Momanyi, who are Kenyan citizens from Nyamira County. She spent her early years in Kenya before moving to Minnesota with her parents as a child. She has previously spoken about how her background has driven her to serve the public.
Local and Kenyan media have highlighted the significance of her continued service as a milestone for Kenyan representation in US state politics.
The Minnesota House results are part of the 2026 midterm elections.
– By John Murunga
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