Aisha Wahab is a community leader fighting for solutions to put the American dream within our reach. When she won her seat on Hayward City Council in 2018, Aisha made national headlines as the first Afghan-American woman elected to public office in the United States. As Mayor Pro Tempore & City Council Member of Hayward, Aisha has implemented policies that reduce economic inequality, expand homeownership opportunities, support small businesses, and strengthen safety nets for seniors, women, children and working families. For Aisha, working to establish and improve these programs is personal.
With the recent overturning of Roe v. Wade, reproductive freedoms of women and pregnant people across the country are at risk. I firmly believe in a person's right to make medical decisions for themselves. I’m proud to be only candidate endorsed by Planned Parenthood, NARAL Pro-Choice, the Legislative Women’s Caucus, and have the trust of many other organizations that prioritize this issue.
During the Great Recession my family’s business was hit hard which resulted in us foreclosing on our home. In Sacramento, I would be the only State Senator who does not own their home - this is personal. That’s why I’ll fight to ensure every Californian has access to affordable housing, as well as protections against unfair evictions and predatory rent increases.
I’ve earned my MBA, been recognized for my work in business, and sit on the City’s Economic Committee, and the Budget & Finance Committee. I’ve helped the City bounce back from COVID and ensure our financial reserves are over the required threshold. We have a better credit rating and are projected to be in good shape for years to come.
My father was murdered - a case that is still unsolved today, and justice has yet to be served. My car has been broken into numerous times, my property stolen and I have been the target of hate speech. We see theft, violence and hate crimes on the rise. Enough is enough. Everyone deserves justice, safety and respect.
As a former environmental consultant, I know our one planet is dying because of our inaction.
Climate change is here – droughts, wildfires and extreme weather are proof. Moving California into a greener future will create local jobs, improve our infrastructure, and save the planet. On Council, I've advocated for the creation of a Wildfire Prevention Joint Powers of Authority to fight fires more regionally and strategically. I’ve pushed the city to invest in the Hayward Shoreline and supported a Green New Deal.
As a former County Public Health Commissioner during the implementation of the Affordable Care Act , I know how expensive and insufficient our healthcare system is. When my father became ill and wanted to upgrade his insurance he was rejected due to a pre-existing condition — diabetes. This led to a significant decline in his health that could have been avoided or delayed. The Affordable Care Act didn’t go far enough. Our healthcare system is plagued with problems.
With less than 3% of foster kids obtaining a college degree, I am fortunate to have a BA, MBA, and I am currently pursuing a doctorate. No matter what a student’s next step is, they should have the tools they need to be successful – in K-12 and beyond.
My life has taught me that it is not the destination but the limited time you have with those around you. Caring for aging parents, wanting to start your own family, and pursuing your own dreams can all be achieved. We just need to prioritize our needs. Women, children, and seniors often struggle in silence, have a limited voice, and need to be prioritized. Our most vulnerable community members are often our most valuable.