HONOLULU — After 20 years in the state Legislature, Sen. Maile Shimabukuro announced Monday that she will not seek reelection to the District 22 (West Oahu) seat.

What You Need To Know

  • Shimabukuro did not offer a reason for her decision but said in a statement that she looks forward to “spending more time with family and friends, focusing on legal services work, volunteering and appreciating life’s simple pleasures”

  • Shimabukuro served in the House of Representatives from 2003 until 2010, when she was appointed to replace Senate President Colleen Hanabusa when Hanabusa was elected to Congress

  • Shimabukuro, who held off Republican challenger Samantha DeCorte by just 72 votes in the 2022 election, said she supports Rep. Cedric Gates as her successor for the District 22 seat

  • Shimabukuro noted that she and Gates collaborated on numerous projects for the Leeward Coast

 

Shimabukuro did not offer a reason for her decision but said in a statement that she looks forward to “spending more time with family and friends, focusing on legal services work, volunteering and appreciating life’s simple pleasures.”

Shimabukuro served in the House of Representatives from 2003 until 2010, when she was appointed to replace Senate President Colleen Hanabusa when Hanabusa was elected to Congress. She has chaired Senate’s Committee on Hawaiian Affairs since 2012 and is also a member of the Health and Human Services and Ways and Means committees.

Shimabukuro, who held off Republican challenger Samantha DeCorte by just 72 votes in the 2022 election, said she supports Rep. Cedric Gates as her successor for the District 22 seat.

“Representative Cedric Gates is an outstanding leader who has consistently demonstrated dedication and energy in serving our community since his election in 2016,” Shimabukuro said in a statement released on Monday. “I believe he has the vision and commitment to continue to deliver for the Leeward Coast.”

Shimabukuro noted that she and Gates collaborated on numerous projects for the Leeward Coast, including the repaving and raising of crosswalks on Farrington Highway, the Nanakuli Public Library, the Nanakuli contraflow lane, and crucial facility improvements for all Leeward Coast schools, including the installation of air conditioner units.

“I am truly honored to receive Sen. Shimabukuro’s endorsement,” Gates said. “Her legacy of service has been inspiring, and I am committed to continuing our collaborative efforts with our community for the betterment of the Westside.”

In her announcement, Shimabukuro thanked her staff, particularly chief of staff Keahi Renaud and community liaison Patrice Tanna, and said her district will be in good hands with Gates and Rep. Darius Kila.

Michael Tsai covers local and state politics for Spectrum News Hawaii. He can be reached at michael.tsai@charter.com.