Ajmeri Hoque, a Columbus attorney, has made history by becoming Ohio’s first Muslim judge and the first naturalized citizen to serve as a judge in Franklin County, according to election results from the Franklin County Board of Elections.

Hoque, 41, won election to the Franklin County Municipal Court bench in the November 4 race, The Columbus Dispatch reported.

She ran unopposed, filling the seat of Judge James Green, who is retiring at the end of 2025 after more than 30 years on the bench.

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Born in Bangladesh, Hoque immigrated to New York with her parents as a toddler before settling in Columbus, where she built a respected career as an attorney and community advocate.

Her election marks a milestone for representation in Ohio’s judiciary, reflecting the state’s growing diversity and the increasing civic participation of Muslim Americans.

Hoque’s candidacy drew attention earlier this year when it became clear she would run unopposed for the position.

The Columbus Dispatch profiled her in March, highlighting her background and the significance of her bid for the Municipal Court seat.

She will officially take office in January 2026.