By Wendy Osher

Linda Lingle. Photo courtesy lingle2012.com.

Former Hawaii governor, and former Maui mayor, Linda Lingle announced today her run for US Senate.

Lingle made the announcement on Honolulu talk radio station KSSK during the station’s morning drive program.

During her interview this morning, Lingle told listeners that her campaign will be about the need for bipartisan solutions to the challenges facing the nation, and her desire to help the people of Hawai’i.

Lingle said she received encouragement to run from residents across the state. “Because of this support, and after much thoughtful deliberation, I am energized and enthusiastic about the opportunity to serve all the people of Hawai‘i in Washington,” said Lingle.

The Republican two-term governor is running for the seat being vacated by Democrat Daniel Akaka when he retires in 2012.

“I always enjoyed working with Senator Akaka during my eight years as governor,” Lingle said in a press release issued by her campaign today.

Despite being from different political parties, Lingle said Akaka always treated her with aloha, saying, “Senator Akaka embodied the spirit of Aloha in Washington DC, and served the people of Hawai’i with grace and dignity for 34 years.”

Among those seeking the Democratic nomination are Rep. Mazie Hirono, and former congressman Ed Case.

Prior to her eight-year service as governor, Lingle served two terms as mayor of Maui (from 1991 to 1999) and and five terms on the Maui County Council (from 1981 to 1991).

A media release from Lingle’s campaign said she will bring, “a record of fiscal accountability and executive experience in economic development, stimulating job creation, international relations, clean energy and visitor industry issues to Washington.”

Over the next 13 months, Lingle plans to make stops across the state to meet with residents, citizen groups, businesses and county leaders, as well as Hawaii’s military and veterans.

“There is so much that needs to be done in Washington for our residents, and I want my fellow citizens to know their voice will be carried to the nation’s Capitol and their issues will be discussed at the highest level,” said Lingle.

Major General Robert Lee, US Army retired, former State Adjutant General and head of Hawaii’s National Guard during the Lingle Administration from 2002-2010, will serve as the Lingle’s campaign manager.