Minnesota is witnessing a significant moment in its political landscape, driven by the actions and voice of Zaynab Mohamed, the youngest state senator in the state’s history. In the wake of a tragic incident that occurred in her city, Mohamed is transforming the grief felt by many into a powerful call for accountability, just as she prepares to embark on her re-election campaign.
On January 7, a heartbreaking event shook the community when Renée Nicole Good, a 37-year-old U.S. citizen and mother of three, was shot and killed by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Minneapolis. The young senator was quick to respond, rushing to the scene and taking to social media to update her constituents in real-time. Her immediate presence highlighted her commitment to the community she serves, but the urgency was underscored by the tragedy itself.
“It has been an incredibly long, painful, and a really, really heartbreaking day for our city,” Mohamed shared in an emotional Instagram video. She did not hesitate to address the role of federal agencies in attempting to control the narrative surrounding Good’s death, voicing concerns over their accountability.
“One thing you should know is the fact that Homeland Security and ICE agents are trying to completely spin this story to save themselves,” she emphasized. “We have been saying since the beginning of December that ICE being in our city does not keep us safe… And today, the worst outcome happened… and now they want to take the pressure away from themselves and pretend that they didn’t do anything when they literally murdered a citizen in our community.” This stark assertion has resonated with many residents who feel similarly affected by federal policies and local enforcement actions.
In the days following the shooting, Mohamed continued to be a visible presence, sharing updates from rallies, press conferences, and community gatherings. She has made it a priority to combat what she perceives as attempts to vilify Good in the aftermath of her tragic death. Her efforts highlight a growing demand for justice and change within the community.
“This federal government has given us too many reasons to not trust them to do the right thing,” she expressed in an interview with The Washington Post. Mohamed accused officials of manipulating facts and shifting blame, saying, “Leaders have used every opportunity since this tragedy to lie about the facts, to lie about Renée and to blame her for her own murder.” These sentiments echo larger frustrations felt by communities disproportionately impacted by aggressive immigration enforcement.
For Mohamed, this incident has reopened deep wounds within a city still grappling with the aftermath of George Floyd’s murder—a community that has seen its share of violence and unrest in recent years. This tragedy, compounded by historical grievances, has given her a renewed perspective on her role as a senator. “For the first time, I feel the weight of the job,” she acknowledged, determined to work on policies that restore trust and integrity within the system. She recognizes her responsibility to represent young people and the broader community, stating, “I have to fight for community, and be a person young people can look at who is comfortable in her own skin. I have to be strong for them.”
Born in Somalia, Mohamed immigrated to Minnesota with her parents and nine siblings 19 years ago. Since taking office, she has established a reputation for being accessible and engaged, especially through her dynamic social media presence. As she documents the growing calls for justice, she emphasizes that the heart of the community remains focused on neighborly support and solidarity.
As Mohamed prepares to run for re-election this fall, representing the 63rd district, she knows the challenges ahead are significant. Election Day, set for November 3, 2026, will not only be a test of her political endurance but also a reflection of the community’s sentiment in the wake of recent events. “Beneath all the problems coming from Washington, people here just want to help their neighbors,” she summarized, showcasing her dedication to grassroots advocacy and community engagement.