India, Nov. 4 -- Aber Kawas has won a seat in the New York State Senate, becoming the first hijab-wearing Palestinian-American woman elected to the state legislature, according to reports and election results.

Kawas, a Democratic candidate and member of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), defeated Republican candidate Han-Khon To in the November 3 general election for State Senate District 12, which covers several neighbourhoods in Queens, New York.

The seat became open after Democratic Senator Michael Gianaris left office in August 2026. Kawas had earlier secured the Democratic nomination by defeating incumbent Assemblymember Steven Raga in the June 23 Democratic primary.

Kawas' victory represents a significant milestone for P...