Generational Challenge Emerges
Myla Rahman, a 53-year-old nonprofit executive, cancer survivor, and Los Angeles native, is taking on Rep. Maxine Waters in California’s 43rd District. At 34 years younger than the 87-year-old congresswoman, Rahman is emphasizing generational change as a key reason for her primary bid.
“People are sick and tired of the same old thing,” Rahman told the California Post, signaling her intent to bring new energy to a district long represented by Waters.
Waters’ Long Tenure
Waters has served in Congress since 1991 and has not faced a serious primary challenge in over a decade in the solidly Democratic 43rd District, anchored in South Los Angeles. Despite her decades in office, Rahman sees an opportunity to capitalize on voters’ frustration with aging politicians, which has grown since President Joe Biden briefly ran for re-election in 2024 before withdrawing due to concerns over his health.
Political Implications
While Republicans have little chance of flipping the district, Rahman’s challenge provides political talking points for the GOP. Christian Martinez, spokesman for the National Republican Congressional Committee, criticized long-serving Democrats, saying, “After decades clinging to power, these political fossils are getting tossed aside by the same radical activists they helped empower.”
Waters remains a prominent figure, serving as the ranking Democrat on the powerful House Financial Services Committee. She continues to speak out on national issues, including criticizing former President Trump and engaging in high-profile exchanges with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.
Rahman’s Vision
Rahman said her campaign focuses on preventative care and overall well-being, including mental and physical health. Looking ahead to the challenging race against a seasoned incumbent, she told the California Post, “We’re getting momentum, momentum is getting strong, and we think that we will have what’s necessary to be competitive and to win this race.”
