Yesterday brought some very sad news: U.S. Rep. Mark Takai, D–Honolulu, announced that health problems would prevent him from running for reelection. Takai won his first term in 2014, but announced last year that he had pancreatic cancer.
“In life, we often make plans for ourselves,” Takai said in a statement released yesterday. “I had envisioned a long career in the U.S. House of Representatives, building up the seniority and influence that were key to Senator [Daniel] Inouye’s ability to deliver for Hawaii. But as often happens, we find ourselves on a different journey than what we had planned. When I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer last year, my family and I resolved to fight it head-on and with deep personal faith. Today, we find ourselves at a crossroads. I had truly hoped to aggressively fight this cancer while seeking re-election, but I recently learned that my cancer has spread.”
Since then, tributes have been pouring in from various local and state officials. Here are some of them:
HOUSE SPEAKER JOE SOUKI (D–Wailuku)
“I first met Mark when he was the student body president of UH Manoa. I was the Chairman of the House Finance Committee and he came in all the time to lobby for a new basketball arena. He was very persistent and very competitive. When he came to the Legislature he brought that same kind of persistence and competitive spirit and for 20 years worked tirelessly for his constituents and the people of Hawaii. I was very proud when he was elected to Congress. Hawaii will miss his service in Washington D.C. as he focuses on his health and family. I know Mark is a fighter, and, god willing, he will win.”
U.S. REP. TULSI GABBARD (D–2nd District)
“Mark is a dear friend and colleague, and my prayers are with him and his family during this difficult time. We’ve served together over the years in many capacities—as colleagues in the Hawaiʻi State House, as Soldiers in the Hawaiʻi Army National Guard, and now in Congress. Mark has a servant’s heart and has dedicated his life to working for the people of Hawaiʻi. Now we can show our thanks to him and his family for their service by supporting them and their decision in every way possible. I look forward to continuing to work with Mark in Congress for the remainder of his term, ensuring that our constituents in Hawaiʻi are served and heard.”
GOV. DAVID IGE
“For many years Mark has wholeheartedly served the people of Hawai‘i, and our communities are better off because of his tireless efforts. I thank him for his military service to our nation, his skilled representation of his constituents in Congress, and his advocacy on behalf of Aiea/Pearl City residents at the State Legislature. He has been a valued colleague and generous friend to me, and I wish him well as he focuses on his health and family.”
LT. GOV. SHAN TSUTSUI
“My heartfelt thoughts are with Congressman Mark Takai as he continues his courageous battle with cancer and I wish him a full, healthy recovery. Although I’m sorry to hear that Mark will not be seeking another term of office, I understand first and foremost that his health and well-being are his top priority. During his time in the nation’s capital, Mark ensured that Hawaii’s voice was heard on issues important to our State, particularly on issues regarding our veterans, kupuna and immigration. As his friend and former colleague at the Legislature, I’ve witnessed Mark’s dedication and commitment to his district and the people of Hawaii. As he continues to work hard and make strides in Washington, D.C., I extend my best wishes and aloha to him and his ohana. I’d also like to send him my sincerest mahalo for the sacrifices he’s made and for his service to the people of Hawaii.”
U.S. SENATOR MAZIE HIRONO (D–Hawaii)
“Mark has served our state and our country honorably as a public servant, elected official, and a Lieutenant Colonel in the Hawaii Army National Guard. He has an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of Hawaii families. I have worked closely with Mark for many years on education reform, and especially on Impact Aid for Hawaii’s schools when I served in the U.S. House of Representatives. I will miss him in this arena as a strong partner on issues we both care deeply about, and will continue to do so through the rest of his term. I have affectionately called Mark my younger brother for many years and I wish Mark and his family all the best.”
U.S. SENATOR BRIAN SCHATZ (D–Hawaii)
“It has been my honor and a true pleasure to work alongside Mark over the years. He is a great teammate and has served the people of Hawai‘i with integrity and aloha. I know this was a difficult decision, and my thoughts and prayers are with him and his family.”
Photo: U.S. Congress/Wikimedia Commons
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