Representative Yusuf Yusuf

Yusuf Yusuf is a Democratic state representative for Maine House District 118, serving Portland since his election in November 2024. He serves on the Housing and Economic Development Committee and works as a mental health case manager while co-owning a family home care business for the elderly and disabled.

Born and raised in Somalia, Yusuf fled civil war in 2000 and lived in Damascus, Syria, for six years, where he completed secondary education and learned Arabic before immigrating to the United States in 2007. He settled initially in Seattle, Washington, became a U.S. citizen, and later moved to Portland, Maine, in 2016, drawn by community advocacy efforts. In Portland, he has volunteered with organizations like Gateway Community Services and Catholic Charities, supporting adults and children, and previously served on the Portland School Board . With his wife Halimo, he operates a personal care agency providing essential home care services. His priorities include affordable housing, education equity, support for learning disabilities, and closing opportunity gaps for minorities, immigrants, and low-income families.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: B.S. in sociology with a minor in psychology from Western Washington University .
• Political Experience: Elected to Maine House of Representatives in November 2024 for the 132nd Legislature ; member of Housing and Economic Development Committee, focusing on affordable housing, zoning, and related policies; former Portland School Board member .