Rep. Scott Saiki thanks supporters after losing re-election: ‘It’s up to the voters in the end’
HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - One of Hawaii’s most powerful politicians is speaking publicly for the first time after losing his re-election bid to Democratic challenger Kim Coco Iwamoto in the primary election.
When asked if he was bitter or mad at the election results, House Rep. and Speaker Scott Saiki told HNN, “No. This is part of the democratic process and people who run for office know exactly what they are getting into and what the risks and benefits are.”
For three decades, voters in his district have chosen him to represent them at the state capitol.
But in the two primary elections before this one, Saiki had to fight hard to keep his seat, narrowly defeating fellow democrat Kim Coco Iwamoto both times.
This time, Iwamoto prevailed.
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“It feels great to have this experience especially knowing that so many very powerful people endorsed him as well,” said Iwamoto. “So I wasn’t just campaigning against him. I was campaigning against the entire democratic establishment.”
While Iwamoto is celebrating her win, Speaker Saiki says he’s grateful.
“I just want to thank all the residents over the years who have just helped me. I think we’ve accomplished a lot together and a lot can be accomplished going forward,” said Saiki.
His loss is being felt by Hawaii’s governor who endorsed and campaigned for Saiki.
“It will be somewhat of a shock to the system at the legislature if the speaker doesn’t prevail,” said Gov. Josh Green. “He’s been a great speaker for my administration. He helped us pass the tax break of the century.”
Political Analyst Collin Moore says house lawmakers could choose the first female speaker to replace Saiki.
“I think it’s likely that Nadine Nakamura will be very competitive for that position,” he said.
“She’s been in the house for a number of years, being the majority leader can often be the next speaker but these things can also be unpredictable,” Moore added.
Kauai representative Nakamura was first elected to the house in 2016.
“It would be a huge honor. We have not had a woman leader in the history of Hawaii so it would be a huge honor,” said Nakamura. “As I said, we have on going discussions and will speak to you when we are ready.”
House lawmakers say they wont officially vote on a new speaker until Saiki’s term ends in November.
“His incredible leadership is something we have to build on now and we are moving in that direction.”
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