Running for All the Right Reasons

In 2004, Ferial Masry, born in Mecca, became the first Saudi American to run for political office in U.S. history. Masry made a spirited run for the California State Assembly seat in a staunchly Republican district, which sparked worldwide interest. She was ABC's Person of the Week, was interviewed by Peter Jennings, and made headlines in the New York Times and Associated Press.

A recent immigrant and naturalized citizen with a Middle Eastern accent, Masry's grassroots campaign succeeded against all odds in winning the write-in vote, a historic victory for all Arab Americans.

Running for All the Right Reasons chronicles Masry's remarkable life, from her childhood in Mecca and her decision to emigrate to the United States to her career as an educator and her bold entry into the world of politics. Masry's story, her passionate belief in democracy and commitment to her community, is the stuff of legend.