Palestinian-American Abir Qawas wins a seat in the New York State Senate for the 12th district, achieving a historic feat as the first Palestinian and Muslim woman elected to the state's legislative council. Qawas, a community activist born and raised in New York to Palestinian parents, received about 74% of the vote. Her campaign focused on issues of housing, immigrant rights and social justice, and she received the support of New York City Mayor Zahran Mamdani.

Palestinian-American Abir Qawas wins a seat in the New York State Senate for the 12th district, achieving a historic feat as the first Palestinian and Muslim woman elected to the state's legislative council. Qawas, a community activist born and raised in New York to Palestinian parents, received about 74% of the vote. Her campaign focused on issues of housing, immigrant rights and social justice, and she received the support of New York City Mayor Zahran Mamdani.