First Muslim Texas State Representatives Sworn Into Office on Tuesday

History was made on Tuesday as two state representatives who are Muslim and immigrated to Texas from Pakistan were sworn into the 88th legislative session.

Salman Bhojani and Dr. Suleman Lalani both took their oaths of office as the Texas Legislature began the 88th session.

The two men also made history by putting one hand on the Quran, the central religious book of Islam, instead of the Bible like the other representatives.

Rep. Bhojani said the Quran they used was the first English version of the book ever printed in the U.S.

Both Reps. immigrated from Pakistan looking for a better life in the U.S.

Bhojani started businesses before becoming an attorney while Lalani focused on helping others as a doctor.

“It is a moment of pride, but it also comes in with a sense of responsibility,” said Rep.Lalani.

“There are so many people that are looking up to me and saying, 'I’m the first, [but] I should not be last,'” said Rep. Bhojani.

Bhojani will put his main focus on education, healthcare, and the economy, while Lalani will work on healthcare.

The rules for becoming a representative in the Texas House is the person must have lived in the state for at least two years and at least one year in the district they are going to be representing by Texas law.

They also must be at least 21 years old, a U.S. citizen, and a "qualified elector" which means they are not restricted from voting.

Bhojani will represent District 92, which covers parts of Arlington, while Lalani will represent District 76 which covers Fort Bend County.