Kenyan-born Huldah Momanyi-Hiltsley wins a second term in Minnesota with almost 72%
The first Kenyan American in the Minnesota House came through a primary rematch in August, then won easily.
Brooklyn Center — Huldah Momanyi-Hiltsley, the first Kenyan American to serve in the Minnesota House of Representatives, has won a second term in District 38A.
Unofficial results gave the Democrat 9,852 votes, about 71.8%, to 3,840, about 28%, for the Republican Charlie Kistler.
From Nyamira to Minnesota
Momanyi-Hiltsley was born in Nyamira County in western Kenya, and moved to the United States with her family, later settling in Minnesota. She built a career in healthcare and was active in community organisations in the Twin Cities, which she has cited as central to her decision to run.
The same rival, twice
Her hardest fights have been within her own party. In 2024 she narrowly beat Wynfred Russell for the nomination, before winning the seat that November with more than 64% of the vote.
Russell challenged her again this year. She won the August primary with 1,822 votes, 48.79%, to his 1,561, 41.81%, and he conceded.
She is expected to be sworn in when the legislature meets in January 2027.
Source: Mwakilishi, The Kenya Times, Mshale, MultiState, November 2026.
