Aisha Wahab (10)

Aisha Wahab is a Democrat representing California State Senate District 10, which includes the cities of Hayward, Union City, Newark, Fremont, Milpitas, Sunnyvale, San Jose, and Santa Clara. Elected in 2022 after defeating fellow Democrat Lily Mei with 53.7% of the vote, she made history as the first Afghan-American woman, first Muslim, and first Afghan elected to the California State Senate. A former foster youth whose father was murdered and mother died, Wahab entered public service to address housing affordability, economic inequality, civic engagement, education, and support for seniors, women, children, and renters. Notable achievements include advocating for caste discrimination protections in California's civil rights act , introducing bills like SB 395 for statewide eviction reporting, and receiving awards such as the Unity Award , Woman of the Year , and CSU East Bay 40 Under 40 . She currently serves as Senate Assistant Majority Leader, Chair of Business, Professions, and Economic Development, Vice Chair of the AAPI Legislative Caucus , and Vice Chair of the Special Committee on International Sporting Events.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Holds a degree from Cal State San Jose.
• Early Career: Worked in nonprofits, community organizing, technology, information technology, finance, and political campaigning; served as Chair of the Alameda County Human Relations Commission, Alameda County Public Health Commissioner, and board member for Afghan Coalition, Abode Services, and Tri-City Volunteers; spoke at the Bay Area Women’s March and joined the White House Roundtable of Afghan-American Leaders.
• Political Roles: Elected Hayward City Council Member in 2018 ; served as Mayor Pro Tempore, implementing policies to reduce economic inequality, expand homeownership, support small businesses, and strengthen safety nets. Briefly considered a 2020 congressional run. State Senate service: 2022–present.