Written by Yasmeen Akhtar and Houston Crescent Staff
Ruwa Romman is a Georgia state representative and a proud Palestinian American known for her strong voice and confident leadership. In 2022, she won the Democratic primary against JT Wu, marking a significant milestone in her political career. On November 5, 2024, Romman was re-elected as state representative and is now preparing for a potential run for governor of Georgia. During our interview with Romman, it was clear that she has a big heart and a deep commitment to serving her community and shaping a better future.
Below is a transcript, lightly edited for clarity, of the interview, which was conducted by Yasmeen Akhtar for the Houston Crescent, youth writer from Fort Settlement Middle School.
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How does it feel to be the first Muslim Women to be elected in any public office in Georgia?
ROMMAN: I’m the first Muslim elected to the Georgia State House and the first Palestinian elected to any state office. That carries weight and responsibility, with which comes many challenges. You’re not just representing a district—you’re representing a community that hasn’t had this kind of voice before.
So what are those challenges that you face?
ROMMAN: Well, we have gotten threats before and have even targeted. But the deeper challenge is leading [in ways] authentic to what I believe—even when it’s unpopular. Leadership isn’t doing what’s popular. It’s doing what’s right. I’ve never regretted choosing principle over popularity. The last election cycle was the hardest of my life. I had just lost my grandfather. Palestine was an open wound. I didn’t want to be in the national spotlight—but circumstances forced the issue.
So how do you face the haters?
ROMMAN: My personality is simple—I won’t let bullies win. If the goal is to silence me, then I’ll be louder.
What inspired you to run for office?
ROMMAN: I didn’t plan to run for office. I was honestly bullied into it. I had been organizing and volunteering in politics since 2014, and through a series of circumstances, the community pushed me to step up. It ended up working out since many people have dreamed of running for state representative, but didn’t have strong foundation like I did.
What advice do you have to give young people who dream to be in the same position as you?
ROMMAN: My biggest advice to young people thinking about office: do the community work first. Learn how power actually works. Understand your values. Build a foundation. The best thing that happened to me is that I didn’t want [to be in] office my whole life. I came into it grounded.
What are your goals for the future?
ROMMAN: I am currently running for governor of Georgia. Too many people can’t afford to live. In fact, sixty-five percent of homeless people in Georgia are actually employed. Hospitals are closing because we refuse to expand Medicaid. My goal is to solve these problems and help out.
About Author:
Yasmeen Akhtar is a middle school student at Fort Settlement. She aspires to become a science teacher and enjoys participating in STEM competitions. Yasmeen is also a Girl Scout, where she enjoys learning horseback riding, exploring her community, and sharing stories through writing.