Rep. Hirono Announces Run for U.S. Senate in 2012

By Wendy Osher

Rep. Mazie Hirono announces her plans to run for U.S. Senate in 2012. Click on image to view video.

Congresswoman Mazie Hirono of Hawai’i announced her plans yesterday to run for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by the retirement of Sen. Daniel Akaka in 2012.

Hirono thanked Sen. Akaka for more than three decades of service and her supporters for encouraging and inspiring her run for U.S. Senate.

“I’ve never sought public office just to hear the sound of my own voice. I’m running for Senate so that my voice can continue to be your voice,” said Rep. Hirono in the announcement.

Hirono is among a growing list of confirmed and potential candidates seeking succession to Sen. Akaka.  Former U.S. Rep. Ed Case announced his plans to run for the seat last month.

Other names that have surfaced as potential contenders include fellow U.S. Rep. Colleen Hana­busa, former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann, former Republican Governor Linda Lingle, and Lt. Gov. Brian Schatz.