Massachusetts is to get its first African-American female member of Congress. During the 2018 Democratic primaries, Ayanna Pressley became the latest primary challenger to upset a sitting Democratic member of Congress, beating a veteran 10-term Democrat Mike Capuano.
In the era of Trump, Pressley’s win adds her to the small but constantly growing number of female and minority candidates who have been driven to victory by the Democratic base.
In her victory speech, Pressley said: “These times demanded more from our leaders and from our party. These times demanded an approach to governing that was bold, uncompromising and unafraid. It’s not just good enough to see the Democrats back in power but it matters who those Democrats are. It seems like change is on the way.”
A shockwave and tears hit Pressley before she celebrated her victory. In a video posted on Twitter, she repeats “we won?”. Moments after a shock, her husband hugs her and she breaks down in tears.
The moment when @AyannaPressley learned she won. No commentary needed. 💜 #ChangeCantWait #mapoli #ma7 #electwomen #electionday pic.twitter.com/SLLlQTI1Sj
— Jesse Mermell (@jessemermell) September 5, 2018
Ayanna Pressley also will be the first ever person of colour to represent the state in Congress. She is being named as an indicator of the future of the Democratic Party.
>Jelena Zukova
