Kaohly Her Makes History Becoming Minnesota’s First Asian American Mayor

On January 2, Kaohly Vang Her took the oath of office, officially becoming St. Paul’s first Hmong American mayor.

Her historic swearing made history as she became the city’s first woman, first Asian American, and first former refugee to lead Minnesota’s capital.

Born in Laos, Her spent her early childhood in a refugee camp after the Vietnam War.

She arrived in the United States at age four, grew up in Wisconsin, and learned English after Hmong, carrying her family’s wartime history into public service and civic leadership.

Her previously served six years as a Minnesota state representative, earning respect for practical, community focused leadership in St. Paul.

In her remarks, she said the victory sends a clear message to young women, Hmong families, and refugees that leadership roles are within reach today.

In outlining her agenda, Her said she will focus on rebuilding aging fire training facilities, public libraries, and key civic venues.

She acknowledged the work comes amid federal funding cuts, emphasizing the need to protect neighbors and strengthen cooperation across St. Paul’s communities.

Her closed by emphasizing collective strength, saying progress is never achieved alone in Hmong culture.

She vowed to stand with residents, resist policies that divide families, and ensure St. Paul moves forward together with dignity and shared responsibility for future generations across the city today.