Jeannie Nasheed: A Political Career in Missouri
Jeannie Nasheed has established a notable presence in Missouri politics, marking several historic milestones during her tenure in public office. From serving in the state legislature to engaging in high-profile social protests, her career reflects a commitment to representation and activism within the St. Louis region.
Legislative Milestones and Historic Firsts
Nasheed began her legislative journey in January 2007, serving as a member of the Missouri House of Representatives representing the 60th district. During this period, she achieved a significant historical milestone by becoming the first Muslim woman to serve in a state legislature.
Her tenure in the House lasted until January 2013, providing a foundation for her subsequent move toward the state senate.
The Path to the Missouri Senate
The 2012 election for the Missouri Senate was marked by a legal challenge regarding Nasheed's eligibility. A St. Louis Circuit Court judge initially ordered her removal from the ballot, citing that she did not reside within the district boundaries at the time of the election. However, Nasheed noted that boundaries were subject to change through redistricting—the process of redrawing electoral district boundaries.
After appealing the decision to the Missouri Supreme Court, she was permitted to remain on the ballot. Nasheed successfully navigated the Democratic primary, defeating both incumbent Robin Wright-Jones and State Representative Jeanette Mott Oxford, before ultimately winning the general election.
Following her victory, Nasheed's leadership role expanded in December when she was selected to chair the Missouri Black Legislative Caucus, a group dedicated to representing the interests of Black Missourians in government.
Activism and Public Controversy
Nasheed's political career has often intersected with social activism. During the Ferguson unrest in October 2014, she was taken into police custody in front of the Ferguson police station. Reports at the time indicated she was intoxicated and in possession of a firearm during the arrest; additionally, witnesses stated she refused to vacate the street despite police instructions.
In September 2016, Nasheed drew further attention by remaining seated while her colleagues recited the Pledge of Allegiance at the Missouri Capitol. She stated this action was a gesture of solidarity with Colin Kaepernick, the former San Francisco 49ers quarterback, to protest racial oppression and police brutality. While Nasheed viewed this as a necessary protest, many of her colleagues characterized the act as unpatriotic.
Later Political Ambitions
In recent years, Nasheed has sought further leadership roles within St. Louis. She declared her candidacy for Mayor of St. Louis for the 2017 election but withdrew from the race in January of that year. Later, in March 2019, she ran for the presidency of the St. Louis Board of Aldermen, the city's legislative body.
Key Facts
- Historic Achievement: First Muslim woman to serve in a state legislature.
- House Tenure: Served the 60th district from January 2007 to January 2013.
- Senate Victory: Won the 2012 general election after a Missouri Supreme Court ruling allowed her to stay on the ballot.
- Leadership: Chaired the Missouri Black Legislative Caucus.
- Activism: Protested police brutality by sitting during the Pledge of Allegiance in 2016.
| Year/Period | Role or Event | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|
| 2007–2013 | Missouri House of Representatives | Represented the 60th district |
| 2012 | Missouri Senate Election | Won general election after legal appeal |
| December 2012 | Missouri Black Legislative Caucus | Appointed as Chair |
| October 2014 | Ferguson Unrest | Taken into police custody |
| September 2016 | Pledge of Allegiance Protest | Sat in solidarity with Colin Kaepernick |
| 2017 | Mayoral Candidacy | Dropped out in January |
| March 2019 | Board of Aldermen Election | Ran for President of the Board |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Jeannie Nasheed almost removed from the 2012 ballot?
A St. Louis Circuit Court judge ruled she did not live within the district boundaries at the time of the election, though she argued that redistricting would change those boundaries.
What historic milestone did Nasheed achieve in the Missouri House?
She was the first Muslim woman to serve in a state legislature.
Why did Nasheed refuse to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance in 2016?
She acted in solidarity with Colin Kaepernick to protest racial oppression and police brutality.
What happened to Nasheed during the Ferguson unrest?
She was taken into police custody on October 20, 2014; reports indicated she was drunk and in possession of a firearm, and that she refused to leave the street when ordered.
Which other St. Louis offices did Nasheed seek?
She ran for Mayor of St. Louis in 2017 (withdrawing in January) and for the presidency of the St. Louis Board of Aldermen in March 2019.