Meet the Asian American woman breaking barriers in Las Vegas politics

Francis Allen-Palenske, who made history as the first Asian American woman elected to both the Nevada state legislature and Las Vegas City Council, is working to ensure AAPI voices help shape the city’s future.

Historic firsts: Allen-Palenske, who represents Ward 4, began her political journey at age 25 when she was first elected to the Nevada Assembly in 2004, becoming the first Asian American woman — and second Asian American, after Robert Wong — to serve in the position.

The lifelong Nevadan, born to a U.S. Army vet and a South Korean mother, served two terms in the Assembly before running for and being elected to the Las Vegas City Council in November 2022, again becoming the first Asian American woman for the role. Outside politics, she is a successful small business owner with more than 15 years of experience in the Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop system.

Uplifting others: In a recent interview, Allen-Palenske reflected on her historic role with a focus on future leadership diversity. “I’m tired of being first. I want to make sure there’s an entire team of folks behind me to help lift the mantle,” she told KTNV. Last month, she acknowledged the diverse makeup of the current council, telling KLAS it includes “three Latinas, an African American, a Jewish female and one Caucasian guy, and now a Korean.”

In terms of policy, the Republican official prioritizes public safety initiatives, supports locally owned businesses and encourages the next generation of AAPI leaders to pursue higher learning. “Asian Americans, we love to focus on education — go to university, get that degree,” she said.