The race for Hopkins' next mayor is heating up, and history could be made if Somali-American filmmaker Abderazak Ali emerges victorious. But here's where it gets intriguing: Ali is challenging incumbent Mayor Patrick Hanlon, alongside business owner Lynn Bialick and retiree Robert Ivers, in a contest that’s about more than just names on a ballot. It’s a battle over the city’s future, with key issues like housing affordability, financial stability, public safety, and the impending arrival of the Metro Transit Green Line extension in 2027 taking center stage. These topics aren’t just buzzwords—they’re the lifelines of a community grappling with growth and change. And this is the part most people miss: how will the candidates’ diverse backgrounds shape their approach to these challenges? Will Ali’s unique perspective as a filmmaker and Somali-American bring a fresh lens to leadership? Or will Hanlon’s experience as the incumbent sway voters? Controversially, some argue that the Green Line extension, while promising, could disrupt the city’s current dynamics—what’s your take? As the polls close, Sahan Journal’s Cynthia Tu, a data reporter and news technology specialist, will be here to break down the live election results with insights from the Minnesota Secretary of State. Cynthia’s knack for analyzing public datasets and uncovering hidden trends ensures you’ll get the full picture, not just the numbers. So, who do you think will take the seat? And more importantly, what does this race say about the future of local leadership in increasingly diverse communities? Let us know in the comments—we’re all ears!
