East Bay Land Rush for Swalwell's Seat in Congress
Eric Swalwell's presidential candidacy immediately set in motion competition from local politicians to run for the congressional seat that he would vacate if elected. Swalwell said earlier this year that he would not seek re-election to the Hayward, Tri-Valley, and Tri-Cities seat if he ran for president.
Hayward Councilmember Aisha Wahab made it clear that she wants to take her show to Washington, announcing a campaign for the East Bay's 15th Congressional District.
"The East Bay and Tri-Valley regions are changing rapidly and many people are struggling to find affordable housing and keep pace with the rising cost of living," Wahab wrote in an email Friday morning to supporters. "We live in one of the wealthiest regions of the country, yet many people in our community cannot afford to see a doctor when they are sick or stay in the area. We can do better than this. And if I am elected, I will fight to address these challenges."
Last November, Wahab, 31, along with a New Hampshire state representative, became the first-ever Afghan Americans elected to public office. Her story of losing both parents at an early age and growing up in foster care resonated with many.
Read more: https://www.eastbayexpress.com/oakland/east-bay-land-rush-for-swalwells-seat-in-congress/Content?oid=26046516
