US primaries: What’s on the ballot in Hawaii elections?

Hawaii, the Aloha state, is set to have its most active primaries in decades. In addition to state legislative offices, the ballot will also include the governor’s office, two Congressional seats and one of the US Senate. The elections are scheduled for August 13, 2022.

Hawaii has largely been a democratic state. All current incumbents in the primary elections are from the Democratic party, and are also likely to retain their offices. Governor David Ige, however, is term-limited.

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The top issues that are likely to influence Hawaii voters this year include affordable housing, increasing strain on the tourism industry, homelessness, climate change and legalisation of recreational marijuana.

US Senate

One of the two US Senate seats in Hawaii is up for grabs in this year’s primary elections. Brian E. Schatz, the incumbent, is the front runner in the Democratic primary. While he is likely to reclaim his Senate seat, Steve Tataii is also running for the legislative office.

US House of Representatives

Hawaii has two Congressional seats in the US House of Representatives, and both of them are up for election this year. US Representative Ed Case will be contesting the primary for the Congressional seat and faces little challenge. 

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The second Congressional district, however, is likely to see a close fight. Jill Tokuda, who has served in Hawaii’s state Senate for roughly 12 years, will be competing with Patrick Pihana Branco, who was elected as state Representative in 2020.

Governor’s office

With governor David Ige‘s exit this year, the top office of the state is likely to trigger a tough challenge through the Democratic party. This year’s primary will see a crowded race, with at least seven Democrats running for the office. The frontrunners are Vicky Cayetano, Joshua Green and Kaiali’i Kahele.