Yemeni Adam Al-Harbi Achieves Landslide Victory in Hamtramck, Michigan Mayoral Election

Arabian Sea Newspaper - Special

Arab Sea – Special: In a historic precedent reflecting the rise of Yemenis in the diaspora to decision-making positions, Yemeni-American candidate Adam al-Harbi won the position of mayor of the city of Hamtramck in the US state of Michigan, achieving a landslide victory in the municipal elections held on Tuesday, August 5, 2025. This victory is a milestone in the history of the Yemeni community in the United States, as al-Harbi became the first person of Yemeni origin to hold the position of mayor in a city with a multicultural and religious character, and which includes a large proportion of immigrants, including an active and influential Yemeni community. Al-Harbi, known for his community activism and interest in education, housing and minority rights issues, received 76% of the votes, surpassing his closest competitor by a large margin, in a result described by local media as "a clear message of support for change and honest leadership from community roots." In his first statement after the results were announced, al-Harbi said: "This victory is not mine alone, but for every immigrant who carried hope and sought to serve his community. I dedicate this achievement to my family in Yemen and to everyone who believed that we are capable of leading." Adam al-Harbi was born in the Ibb Governorate, and immigrated with his family to the United States at an early age. He grew up in the city of Hamtramck, and his name emerged as a community activist and city council member, before running for mayor with broad support from various components of the local community. This achievement reflects the enormous potential that Yemenis in the diaspora possess, and confirms their ability to actively contribute to their new communities, participate in decision-making, and represent their issues at the highest levels.