Somali-Americans in Maine Politics: A Journey of Civic Integration
The integration of Somali immigrants into the political landscape of Maine reflects a broader narrative of civic engagement and resilience. From early attempts to enter the legislative arena to securing key leadership roles in city and state government, the Somali-American community has steadily transitioned from newcomers to influential participants in the democratic process.
Key Facts
- Deqa Dhalac became the first Somali-born mayor of South Portland in 2021.
- Three Somali-American Democrats currently serve in the Maine House of Representatives: Deqa Dhalac, Mana Abdi, and Yusuf Yusuf.
- Safiya Khalid broke barriers in 2019 by being elected to the Lewiston city council.
- Local leaders in Lewiston have credited the Somali community with being instrumental in the city's revitalization.
- Early political efforts began as early as 2010 with primary runs for the Maine Legislature.
Early Political Aspirations and Challenges
The path to political representation began with foundational efforts in 2010. During this time, Somali immigrants who had become U.S. citizens in Portland sought to run for the Maine Legislature. Mohammed Dini contested the Democratic Party primary in District 119, while Badr Sharif ran in the Republican Party primary for District 116. Although both candidates were defeated in their respective primaries, these bids signaled a growing desire for representation.
Simultaneously, the Somali community in Portland advocated for expanded democratic access by leading a campaign to allow non-citizens to vote in municipal elections.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Navigating Political Rhetoric and Federal Policy
The community has often found itself at the center of national political discourse. In August 2016, during a rally in Portland, Donald Trump suggested that crime was worsening in Maine, specifically referencing the state as a major destination for Somali refugees. This claim was promptly countered by local authorities.
The Lewiston police chief clarified that Somali residents had integrated well and that crime rates were actually decreasing. Similarly, the mayor of Lewiston affirmed that the city remained safe. Support for the community also came from Portland mayor Ethan Strimling and Republican senator Susan Collins, who described Trump's disparaging remarks about legal immigrants as "unhelpful" and highlighted the benefits Maine has gained from immigrants from Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.
Political tensions extended to federal policy following the 2016 election. The issuance of Executive Order 13780—a three-month travel restriction targeting citizens of six Muslim-majority countries, including Somalia—created anxiety among residents and immigrants in Lewiston, placing a temporary strain on communal living.
The Rise of Somali-American Leadership
Despite early setbacks, such as the unsuccessful 2017 bids by three Somalia-born candidates for the Lewiston school committee, the community eventually achieved significant electoral breakthroughs.
Municipal Successes
In 2018, Deqa Dhalac, a native of Mogadishu, was elected to the South Portland city council. Her rise continued as she was re-elected unopposed in 2020 and ascended to the role of mayor in 2021. In Lewiston, Safiya Khalid achieved a milestone in 2019 by winning a seat on the city council.
State Legislative Representation
The 2022 elections marked a turning point for representation in the Maine House of Representatives. Deqa Dhalac was elected to represent District 120, and Mana Abdi was elected to the 95th District. Both Democrats were successfully re-elected in 2024. They were joined in 2024 by Yusuf Yusuf, a former member of the Portland School Board, who was elected to represent the 118th district.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Impact on Community and Culture
The contribution of Somali residents extends beyond the ballot box. In December 2025, the mayor of Lewiston emphasized that the Somali community has been instrumental in the city's revitalization, noting that immigrants have historically helped shape the economic, cultural, and social character of Maine.
In response to continued disparaging rhetoric, faith leaders have urged the public to avoid dehumanizing language based on ethnicity or origin. Many Somali residents continue to view the United States as a "beacon of human rights," embracing the common ideals that define American civic life.
| Year | Individual/Event | Achievement/Role | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | Mohammed Dini & Badr Sharif | First primary runs for State Legislature | Portland/District 116 & 119 |
| 2018 | Deqa Dhalac | Elected to City Council | South Portland |
| 2019 | Safiya Khalid | Elected to City Council | Lewiston |
| 2021 | Deqa Dhalac | Became Mayor | South Portland |
| 2022 | Deqa Dhalac & Mana Abdi | Elected to Maine House of Representatives | Statewide |
| 2024 | Yusuf Yusuf | Elected to Maine House of Representatives | District 118 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the first Somali-born mayor in Maine?
Deqa Dhalac became the mayor of South Portland in 2021 after previously serving on the city council.
How many Somali-Americans currently serve in the Maine House of Representatives?
As of 2024, there are three Somali-American Democrats in the House: Deqa Dhalac, Mana Abdi, and Yusuf Yusuf.
What was the impact of Executive Order 13780 on the community?
The order imposed a three-month travel restriction on citizens of six Muslim-majority countries, including Somalia, which caused worry and strain on communal living for immigrants and residents in Lewiston.
How has the Somali community affected the city of Lewiston?
According to the mayor of Lewiston, the presence of Somali residents has been instrumental in the city's revitalization and has contributed to its economic, cultural, and social character.
Did early attempts to enter Maine politics succeed?
Early attempts in 2010 by Mohammed Dini and Badr Sharif were unsuccessful in the primary elections, and three candidates for the Lewiston school committee also ran unsuccessfully in 2017 before later breakthroughs occurred.