I spent the days after last Tuesday’s historic election in Washington D.C. meeting with journalists, fellow human rights activists, and members of the Senate and Congress. In particular, I sought out and interviewed Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen, Colorado Congresswoman-elect Melat Kiros, and New York Congressman-elect Brad Lander. Here’s what I learned about the future leadership of Senate Democrats and House Democrats—and what role you can play in shaping that leadership.
Let’s Address This.
Senator Chris Van Hollen
Fun fact — did you know that Senator Van Hollen and I are both Pakistani-Americans? It’s true, as the son of a diplomat, Senator Van Hollen as born in Karachi, Pakistan while I was born in Rawalpindi, Pakistan. And while I would love to have a future American President who is also Pakistani American, for now I’d love even more to have Senator Van Hollen as Senate Majority Leader. Watch our brief interview—and then note the one question he refused to answer.
Congresswoman-Elect Melat Kiros (CO-1)
Congresswoman-elect Melot Kiros ran an inspired campaign on the principles of absolute justice and human rights—and the people of Denver rewarded her with a resounding victory. I speak with her about what this moment means, and what she hopes to accomplish once she is sworn in.
Congressman-Elect Brad Lander (NY-10)
Congressman-elect Brad Lander has exemplified interfaith harmony and leadership during some of the most trying times in our nation’s recent memory. I spoke with him about the importance of unity against extremism, and how he intends to lead once sworn into office.
Call To Action
Raise your voice. I would love nothing more than Senator Chris Van Hollen as Senate Majority Leader and Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley as Speaker of the House.
Call their offices to make sure they hear you.
Senator Van Hollen’s Office: (202) 224-4654
Congresswoman, Ayanna Pressley (D, MA-7) Office: (202) 225-5111
Here’s a short script to follow:
Hello [Senator/Congresswoman]
May name is [Name] and I am calling to urge Senator/Congresswoman to run for Senate Majority/Speaker of the House. Senator/Congresswoman has demonstrated courageous leadership, a firm commitment to the US Constitution and absolute justice, and as an unapologetic champion of human rights. They have defined their careers by fighting for working families and standing up to billionaires and corporations. Please encourage them to run and continue to serve the American people as Senate Majority Leader/Speaker of the House. Thank you.
BONUS INTERVIEW: Leah Greenberg - Co-Executive Director of Indivisible
I also had the privilege of meeting with Leah Greenberg, who has championed grassroots organizing to historic levels of success. We discussed what drives her, how more voters can get involved, and how we ensure even greater success in 2028.
Conclusion
We are entering a potentially new era in politics, led by some of the most dynamic and inspiring voices imaginable. I was proud to help elect Melat Kiros and Brad Lander, and you can bet I will absolutely work to ensure they are accountable to the people who elected them. Public servants are just that—servants of the public, and it is our responsibility to continue to work with them after their election to ensure they are fulfilling the needs and rights of working people. Join me in this journey and let’s continue to form that more perfect Union.
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Qasim Rashid is a human rights attorney, author, and host of Let’s Address This, a platform dedicated to human rights, people-powered politics, and the accountability that corporate media refuses to deliver. Subscribe, share, and let’s remain relentless in our mission for a more perfect Union.
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Keep up your good work Qasim!
I've heard several are putting his name into consideration, glad you're one of them.