Niqab-Wearing Muslim Woman Wins North Carolina GOP State Senate Nomination

Lakeshia Alston, who went viral for her campaign photo, will run for the District 22 seat.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Lakeshia Alston, a Muslim woman who gained national attention last year for wearing a niqab in her campaign photo, has officially become the Republican nominee for North Carolina's District 22 State Senate seat after running unopposed.

Why it matters

Alston's nomination represents a shift in the GOP's traditional image, as the party has historically been seen as less welcoming to Muslim and minority candidates. Her victory also highlights the growing diversity of political representation in the state.

The details

Alston, a 42-year-old small business owner, decided to run for the state Senate seat after becoming disillusioned with the Democratic party. She gained attention during her campaign for wearing a niqab, a traditional Islamic face veil, in her official campaign photo, which went viral on social media.

  • Alston won the GOP nomination on March 3, 2026.

The players

Lakeshia Alston

A 42-year-old Muslim woman and small business owner who won the Republican nomination for North Carolina's District 22 State Senate seat.

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What they’re saying

“I'm honored to be the Republican nominee and I look forward to bringing my unique perspective to the state Senate.”

— Lakeshia Alston (The Gateway Pundit)

What’s next

Alston will face the Democratic nominee in the general election on November 4, 2026.

The takeaway

Alston's nomination represents a shift in the GOP's traditional image, as the party has historically been seen as less welcoming to Muslim and minority candidates. Her victory highlights the growing diversity of political representation in North Carolina.