### Historic Election: Kaohly Her Becomes St. Paul's First Hmong American and Female Mayor - In a groundbreaking election, Kaohly Her has been elected as the new mayor of St. Paul, Minnesota, marking a significant milestone as the first woman and Hmong American to hold this position. Her victory over two-term incumbent Melvin Carter was unexpected and has been described as a major upset in the political landscape of the city [https://www.startribune.com/st-paul-mayor-election-2025/601503582]. - Her campaign resonated with voters, emphasizing her unique background and experiences, which she believes set her apart from her opponent [https://www.cbsnews.com/minnesota/news/kaohly-her-readies-to-be-st-paul-next-mayor]. ### Overview of the Election Results and Context 1. **Election Outcome**: Kaohly Her won the mayoral race against Melvin Carter, who had served two terms. Her victory was confirmed after second-choice votes were counted, a first in St. Paul’s mayoral elections [https://www.wctrib.com/news/minnesota/kaohly-her-wins-st-paul-mayor-race-in-upset-over-melvin-carter]. 2. **Historical Significance**: Her's election is historic as she becomes the first woman and the first Hmong American to lead St. Paul, reflecting a shift in the city's political dynamics [https://nwasianweekly.com/2025/11/kaohly-vang-makes-history-in-minnesota-mayoral-race]. 3. **Campaign Strategy**: Her's campaign focused on her personal story and her commitment to addressing the challenges faced by the community, which resonated with voters [https://www.fox9.com/news/rep-kaohly-her-st-pauls-next-mayor-is-no-stranger-rising-above-challenges]. 4. **Incumbent's Response**: Following the election, Melvin Carter conceded and expressed his willingness to support Her in her transition to office, indicating a collaborative approach moving forward [https://patch.com/minnesota/saintpaul/kaohly-her-projected-win-st-paul-mayor-s-race-over-melvin-carter-major-upset]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Election Statistics**: The election was characterized by a significant voter turnout, with Her receiving a substantial number of second-choice votes that ultimately secured her victory [https://www.startribune.com/twin-cities-election-results-2025-stp-mayoral-race/601516894]. - **Voter Sentiment**: Polls leading up to the election indicated a growing desire for change among St. Paul residents, which Her capitalized on through her campaign messaging [https://www.blabber.buzz/economics/1070569-woman-who-publicly-called-herself-illegal-stuns-nation-by-winning-major-city-mayoral-race]. - **Community Impact**: Her's election is expected to inspire greater representation and engagement among the Hmong community and other minority groups in local governance [https://www.tampafp.com/kaohly-vang-her-wins-mayoral-race-in-minnesota-after-claiming-shes-an-illegal-immigrant]. ### Conclusion: A New Era for St. Paul - **Major Findings**: Kaohly Her's election as mayor signifies a transformative moment for St. Paul, highlighting the importance of diversity and representation in leadership roles. Her victory not only breaks barriers but also sets a precedent for future elections in the city. - **Key Takeaways**: 1. Her's win is a historic achievement for women and the Hmong community in St. Paul. 2. The election results reflect a desire for change among voters, leading to a significant upset against an incumbent. 3. Her's campaign strategy effectively connected with the community, emphasizing her unique background and experiences. This election marks a pivotal moment in St. Paul's history, promising a new direction under Her's leadership [https://www.startribune.com/st-paul-mayor-election-2025/601503582].