Vanna Howard is a Democratic State Senator representing the First Middlesex District in Massachusetts, which includes the communities of Lowell, Dracut, Dunstable, Pepperell, and Tyngsborough. A historic figure as the first Cambodian American state senator in the United States, she survived the Khmer Rouge genocide, fleeing Cambodia at age 11 after losing her father, three siblings, and grandparents. She overcame personal challenges including homelessness, hunger, and domestic violence, crediting her community for support. Howard won a special general election in 2026 with 58% of the vote, succeeding the late Sen. Ed Kennedy, and was sworn in on March 18, 2026. Notable achievements include securing millions in funding to address the housing crisis, strengthen childcare, and enhance community safety during her prior service.

Education and Political Experience

• Served over a decade with former Congresswoman Niki Tsongas, assisting constituents in the district.
• Worked in the District Attorney’s Office and volunteered with more than 50 nonprofits.
• Chaired the Massachusetts Asian American Commission.
• Elected to the Massachusetts House of Representatives for the 17th Middlesex District in 2020, winning all primaries and general elections.
• Ran successfully in the Democratic Primary on February 3, 2026, for State Senate.