The Election Day results on Tuesday—from New York City to Detroit, from Boston to St. Paul, from Virginia to California—underscore the power of collective resistance and community mobilization. Over the last year, our communities have been adversely impacted by a government intent on rolling back hard-won civil rights, economic investments, and community infrastructure that have long benefited disadvantaged and underinvested populations, including the most recent threats to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). In response, a record number of voters across the country turned out to affirm a vision for the future that reflects their priorities and lived experiences.
From coast to coast, historic victories for leadership campaigning on issues of economic and housing justice, and reflective of the diverse populations who make up this country, demonstrated the power of voters:
- In New York City, Zohran Mamdani will become the city’s first South Asian and first Muslim mayor, promising to address the longstanding affordable housing crisis in the City.
- In Virginia, Abigail Spanberger will be the state’s first woman governor, running on a resident-driven vision for the state, while Ghazala Hashmi will be the first Muslim woman elected statewide as lieutenant governor.
- In New Jersey, Mikie Sherrill is poised to become governor after resonating with voters on her plans to address the rising costs of living.
- In Detroit, Mary Sheffield is the first woman to be elected mayor of the city, planning to defend tenant rights and prevent evictions.
- In Boston, Mayor Michelle Wu, the city’s first woman and Asian American mayor, ran unopposed and will serve her second four-year term, promising to tackle the city’s affordability and housing crisis.
- In St. Paul, Kaohly Her will become St. Paul’s first woman and Hmong mayor, promising to champion affordable housing, safe communities, and a vibrant economy.
These are just a few of the wins from Tuesday, and the true celebration extends beyond any individual leader. At National CAPACD, we believe that communities must have the power to influence the decisions and drive the solutions that impact their lives. This week’s results reaffirm our communities’ ability to exercise power and enact change: when our communities are under attack, they will organize, deepen solidarity, and turn out to vote in defense of their dignity and futures, reshaping what is possible.
Today, we celebrate community power. Tomorrow, we will continue to build and mobilize, rooted in place, fueled by hope, and committed to thriving futures for all.