Hopkins, Minnesota — Abderazak Ali, a former Somali refugee turned filmmaker, has launched his first-ever campaign for mayor of Hopkins, driven by little more than determination, community goodwill, and a $200 personal contribution.
Ali’s journey to this moment has been anything but ordinary. Years ago, he fled war-torn Somalia as a young man, crossing treacherous routes through North Africa in search of safety. The journey tested his endurance and faith, but it also gave him a deep appreciation for the stability and opportunities he would later find in the United States.
Now a proud resident of Hopkins, Ali is stepping into local politics with a promise to give voters a meaningful choice. His campaign, run entirely by volunteers, is fueled by conversations with neighbors, late-night planning sessions, and a belief that leadership starts with listening.
Though his resources are limited, his ambitions are not. Ali wants to focus on everyday issues that often slip through the cracks of political debate — from affordable housing and small business support to stronger community engagement and youth programs. He believes Hopkins can thrive when people from all backgrounds feel included in shaping its future.
For many longtime residents, Ali’s candidacy represents a refreshing and hopeful chapter in their city’s civic life. To others, it’s a reminder of how far determination and community spirit can carry someone who once had to start over with nothing.
As election day approaches, Ali’s grassroots campaign continues to gain quiet momentum, proving that passion and purpose can sometimes outweigh money and machinery. Whether or not he wins, his story has already left a mark — not just as a candidate, but as a testament to the resilience and possibility that define the American dream.