U.S. Congressman Kai Kahele today made his run to be Hawaii’s next governor official.
The announcement came as Kahele, a Hilo resident, was surrounded by supporters, friends, and ʻohana at the Boys and Girls Club of the Big Island.
“Kai’s resolve to serve Hawaii’s people right here at home and provide responsive, decisive leadership at the highest level of our state government is exactly what Hawaii needs right now,” said Gerald DeMello, Hilo resident and long-time government relations specialist.
Kahele announced that he will be participating in the state’s public funding program and that the campaign will not be taking single donations greater than $100.
“If we cannot win with a campaign uncorrupted by max donations and big outside money, then we have truly lost,” Kahele said and added, “Hawaii is not for sale!”
Kahele already has received the endorsement of two labor unions: Ironworkers Local 625 and the Plasterers & Cement Masons.
Kahele enters a crowded race in the Democratic gubernatorial primary, with Lt. Gov. Josh Green and former Hawaii First Lady Vicky Cayetano announcing their runs to be the state’s chief executive.
Former Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell was also in the running, but dropped out of the race earlier this week.