Maplewood, Minnesota – In a historic victory for the city’s growing Asian American population, Council Member Chonburi Lee was elected mayor on Tuesday, defeating incumbent Marylee Abrams with 58% of the vote. Lee’s win makes him Minnesota’s second Hmong mayor, following St. Paul’s Kaohly Her, and underscores the city’s increasingly diverse demographic.

Community celebration and representation

Residents flooded Lee’s phone with texts, calls, and messages of congratulations from across the state. Mee Vang, board president of The United Hmong Family, said the election “sets a standard” and fills the community with pride. Young residents like 19‑year‑old Alena Chang of St. Paul noted that seeing a Hmong mayor “gives a good role model to the younger kids.”

Campaign strategy

Lee’s campaign, managed by State Rep. Jay Xiong, relied heavily on door‑knocking, community events, and personal phone calls. “Any opportunity that I get, it’s at the door, talking to people, seeing people face to face,” Lee explained. The grassroots approach resonated with voters, many of whom turned out in higher numbers than in previous mayoral elections.

Vision for Maplewood

As mayor, Lee emphasized a collaborative relationship with the city council and a focus on public safety, business support, and inclusive community services. He plans to meet with city staff to outline a strategic plan that reflects the needs of Maplewood’s immigrant families and long‑time residents alike.

Broader significance

Hmong American Experience editor Seng Alex Vang highlighted that Minnesota has the highest concentration of Hmong elected officials in the nation, thanks to its long‑standing refugee‑resettlement infrastructure. State Rep. Samantha Vang praised Lee as “relatable and approachable,” noting his background as a refugee and working father aligns with the values many Minnesotans cherish.

St. Paul Mayor Kaohly Her, who herself broke ground as the first Hmong mayor in the Twin Cities, expressed enthusiasm for collaboration, saying, “Our parents came here as refugees and rebuilt from nothing. Seeing their kids lead the cities that welcomed them is something special.”

Looking ahead

Lee’s election is expected to strengthen representation for people of color and immigrant communities in local government. Residents hope his leadership will continue to attract diverse families, support small businesses, and maintain the safe, welcoming atmosphere that has drawn many to Maplewood in recent decades.

Original reporting: Sahan Journal — read the source article.