Ige Selects Acasio To Fill Kahele’s Senate Seat
She is a teacher who has served in Democratic Party leadership roles.
Laura Acasio will be Hawaii’s newest state lawmaker.
Gov. David Ige announced at a press conference Tuesday that he selected Acasio to complete the remaining two years of Kai Kahele’s four-year term in the state Senate.
鈥淪he will be traveling to Oahu to be seated by the Senate to take her place as the Senate convenes tomorrow,” said Ige.
“Laura is an educator working with our students in public schools; she is an engaged community leader who volunteers with a number of organizations focusing on education, protection of our oceans and environment and health among many of her passions.鈥
Acasio, according to the Democratic Party of Hawaii, is a substitute teacher who served “in multiple leadership roles” within the party and with nonprofits such as the Hilo Surfrider Foundation and Ka Umeke Kaeo Public Charter School.
Her name was submitted to Ige last month for his consideration along with two other Big Island Democrats. She will represent Senate District 1 (Hilo).
The Hawaii Legislature opens its 2021 session Wednesday. Acasio is expected to be administered the oath of office at 10 a.m. during the opening day floor proceedings.
Kahele was sworn in to the U.S. Congress last week representing Hawaii’s 2nd Congressional District.
