Huldah Momanyi Hiltsley, the first Kenyan-born member of the state’s House of Representatives, has shared her perspective on President William Ruto’s performance.
Speaking on Thursday, December 13, Momanyi avoided assigning a specific rating to Ruto’s leadership, however, acknowledging his dedication to addressing the needs of Kenyan citizens.
“I’m not in the business of rating President Ruto and how he is performing, but I know, now that I’m on this side, he has the heart for his people and is doing the best that he can to make sure that he addresses the concerns of his citizens. And he continues to do that. That is all the citizens want," she said.
Momanyi became the first Kenyan-born individual elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives, representing District 38A.
Running on the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party ticket, she won decisively with 64.78% of the vote, capturing the support of a diverse constituency in southwestern Brooklyn Park and Osseo.
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In her acceptance speech, Momanyi described her victory as a milestone for immigrant communities and a testament to resilience.
“This victory belongs to all of us; it is a testament to the strength of immigrants and the belief in the American dream,” she said.
Momanyi credited her success to her grassroots campaign, which focused on community-centered issues such as public safety, affordable housing, and healthcare.
Notably, her journey from Nyamira County, Kenya, to the Minnesota State Capitol has been remarkable.
Her family immigrated to the U.S. when she was nine, overcoming challenges such as an immigration system that once threatened their deportation.
A graduate of Bethel University with multiple degrees, Momanyi has built a career in data privacy and community advocacy.
Now, as a legislator, she aims to amplify immigrant voices, champion workers’ rights, and create economic opportunities for small businesses, many of which are owned by African immigrants.
Momanyi's win has been celebrated widely in Minnesota and Kenya, where she hopes to inspire young girls.
“If I can make it to this point, I can be a role model to remind others that our wildest dreams are possible,” she stated.
Momanyi will be sworn into office in January 2025.
