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State lawmaker Aisha Wahab wins California special election to replace former Rep. Swalwell
PBS • • nation
Key Points:
- California state Sen. Aisha Wahab won a special election to complete former Rep. Eric Swalwell's term in the 14th Congressional District, becoming the first Afghan American to serve in Congress.
- Swalwell resigned amid sexual assault and harassment allegations, which he denies, and is currently under federal investigation with searches conducted at his home and airport.
- Wahab, a progressive Democrat, defeated Bay Area Rapid Transit Director Melissa Hernandez despite heavy outside spending supporting Hernandez, highlighting her campaign's message that the district "cannot be bought."
- Wahab has a history of championing housing affordability and authored a 2023 bill to ban caste-based discrimination, which was vetoed by Governor Gavin Newsom.
- Wahab and Hernandez will compete again in the November election for the full two-year term, with the race reflecting differing views on Israel and Palestine among the candidates.
