Lt. Gov. Tsutsui Announces Candidacy for 2014

Lt. Gov.  Shan Tsutsui and his honorary campaign chairman retired US Sen. Daniel Akaka. Courtesy photo.

By Rodney S. Yap

Lieutenant Governor Shan S. Tsutsui formally announced his candidacy to continue serving the state of Hawaii in his current capacity.

The 41-year-old Tsutsui succeeded to the office of lieutenant governor after the position was vacated by Senator Brian Schatz at the close of 2012. Simultaneously on Thursday, Tsutsui received his first endorsement – from the Hawaii Construction Alliance.

“It has been an honor to serve as lieutenant governor this year. In this short time, I have learned much about the responsibilities of the office and look forward to continuing to work on initiatives and programs, including the REACH Out program for intermediate/middle schools to help enrich the education and lives of our keiki,” Tsutsui said. “Going forward, I will continue to follow my philosophy of balancing the needs of today while keeping an eye on the future. Moving Hawaii forward will require great commitment, sacrifice and compassion on the part of all of our residents, and I am equally dedicated to that goal as Hawaii’s lieutenant governor.”

Serving as Tsutsui’s honorary campaign chairperson is retired US Senator Daniel K. Akaka, who has been, and continues to be, an inspiration to Tsutsui.

“Shan is a shining example of the future of leadership in Hawaii. He is a relationship builder, forming genuine connections with others, and works to bring out the best in people,” said Akaka. “His vision, dedication and commitment to the residents of Hawaii demonstrate the true aloha spirit that will lead Hawaii into the future.”

The Hawaii Construction Alliance represents more than 15,000 carpenters, masons, operating engineers and other laborers.

In 2002, Tsutsui was elected to the Hawaii Senate, representing Central Maui. From 2010 to 2012, he was selected among his peers to serve as president of the senate, making him the first senator from Maui to serve as senate president.

Tsutsui, and his wife, Lyndelle, reside in Waiehu with their three daughters, Mikayla, Kaylee and Kenna.