Amir Omar Makes History as First Muslim Mayor of Richardson, Texas

Amir Omar has made history by becoming the first Muslim mayor of Richardson, a North Texas city of approximately 120,000 residents. This milestone marks a significant step forward for Muslim representation in the Dallas area, reflecting the growing diversity of the community.

Omar, who had previously served on the Richardson City Council since 2009, defeated incumbent Bob Dubey with 54.4% of the vote in the May 3, 2025, mayoral race. His victory builds on his earlier achievement as the first Muslim elected to municipal office in North Texas and the first Iranian-American elected to municipal office in Texas.

Born in Milwaukee to a Palestinian father and Iranian mother, Omar embodies a multicultural background that resonates with Richardson’s diverse population. He has lived in Richardson for 20 years and brings both a professional history in the tech industry and a commitment to inclusive governance.

Amir Omar

"Representation matters," Omar said, emphasizing that while his Islamic faith is a source of pride for the Muslim community, his mayoral leadership focuses on a broader vision for the city’s future.

Omar’s campaign prioritized revitalizing older neighborhoods and managing limited land for development, issues that resonated with voters. He acknowledged that while some were aware of his Muslim faith, the community’s support was driven more by his vision and leadership than religion.

"Yes, the Muslim community was incredibly excited about having a mayor that belongs to the same faith," he said, "but they know my job has little to do with the religion I practice and more to do with the vision I have for the city."

Despite occasional backlash, Omar noted such reactions were minimal compared to the overwhelming support he received. His election sends a powerful message of inclusion and unity in a city known for its multicultural fabric, including a significant Asian American population and a growing Muslim community.

Omar’s political journey began with his election to the city council in 2009, when he narrowly defeated an incumbent. His campaign then faced the challenge of overcoming religious bias, yet he prevailed through hard work and community engagement. The incumbent at the time, Dennis Stewart, a retired Richardson police lieutenant, publicly supported Omar and even recounted his efforts to protect the local Muslim community from backlash after 9/11.

The recent election also highlighted broader gains for Muslim candidates in Dallas County. Alongside Omar’s victory, Arefin Shamsul, another Muslim councilmember in Richardson, was re-elected with a strong majority. These successes underscore the increasing political engagement and representation of Muslim Americans in local governance, even as challenges remain for some candidates in other districts.

Omar’s win is not just a personal achievement but a landmark moment for Muslim political participation in Texas. It reflects demographic shifts and growing acceptance, offering a blueprint for future inclusive coalitions. As he assumes office, Omar carries the hopes of a diverse electorate and a commitment to leadership that transcends religious identity, focusing instead on the shared goals of community growth and prosperity.

In his own words, "I'm Amir Omar, and I'm the mayor of the city of Richardson," a statement that resonates far beyond the city limits as a symbol of progress and representation for Muslims in North Texas.