Palestinian-American Sam Rasoul, 39, announced his candidacy for lieutenant governor of the state of Virginia. 

Elections will be held in 2021. 

Rasoul made the announcement on Twitter saying, "Hope isn't easy, but sometimes light punches through darkness. Today, I announce my run for Lt. Governor of Virginia to join you in shining hope in every corner. Powered entirely by individual donors, help me prove that Truth, Love, & Grit wins the day."

Rasul is the son of Palestinian immigrants who hail from the city of Al-Bireh in the West Bank. He has been a member Virginia House of Delegates for the state's Democratic Party since 2014.