California lawmaker overcomes pro-Israel spending to win special election
Progressive candidate Aisha Wahab has won a special election for California's 14th congressional district, becoming the first Afghan American in Congress. Her victory occurred despite significant campaign spending by pro-Israel groups, highlighting ongoing debates regarding foreign policy influence in US politics.
Why it matters
The race serves as a bellwether for the influence of pro-Israel lobbying in the US and the growing political strength of progressive candidates who challenge traditional establishment spending.
Victory for state Senator Aisha Wahab marks the latest example of a progressive overcoming millions in outside spending.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info California state Senator Aisha Wahab speaks to the media during an election-night watch party on August 18 in Hayward, California [Heather Diehl/Getty Images via AFP] By Al Jazeera Staff , Reuters and The Associated Press Published On 22 Aug 2026 22 Aug 2026 California state Senator Aisha Wahab has won a special election to fill the seat of former United States Congressman Eric Swalwell , overcoming a deluge of attack advertising funded by pro-Israel groups in the final weeks of the race.
US media outlets projected on Thursday that Wahab, a progressive, had beaten her rival, moderate Democrat Melissa Hernandez.
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