First Buddhist Senator and First Hindu Representative Elected

Both Hawaiian Democratic politicians

Tuesday's elections brought two historic firsts for religion in American politics: A Buddhist senator and a Hindu representative—both from Hawaii—will join Congress.

Democrat Mazie Hirono beat former Gov. Linda Lingle (R), making Hirono the first Buddhist in the Senate. In Hawaii's 2nd Congressional District, Democrat Tulsi Gabbard defeated Republican opponent Kawika Crowley, making Gabbard the first Hindu in Congress.