Lieutenant Governor Schatz to Apply for Senate Seat Vacancy

Lt. Gov. Brian Schatz, file photo by Wendy Osher.

By Wendy Osher

Lieutenant Governor Brian Schatz today confirmed his interest in the Senate vacancy created by the passing of US Senator Daniel Inouye.

In a personal statement released today, Schatz said, “No one can take the place of Senator Inouye, and we all continue to mourn his loss.”

The Democratic Party of Hawai`i will meet on December 28 to decide upon three names that the governor will consider for appointment to the US Senate.

“I will apply to be considered for this vacancy. I hope to make the case to the State Central Committee members that I should be one of the three names that the governor will ultimately consider,” said Schatz.

Schatz will not offer public comment until the conclusion of the memorial services for Senator Inouye this weekend.

According to Hawaii Revised Statutes, the party has up to 21 days to provide the list of three nominees.