Former U.S. President Barack Obama today announced his endorsement of State Senator Kaiali‘i Kahele, the Democratic nominee for Hawai‘i’s Second Congressional District. Kahele is one of 29 U.S. House nominees endorsed by the former Hawai‘i native in his second wave of 2020 endorsements.
Obama said in his announcement, which appeared on Twitter and Facebook shortly after 3 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 25, “I’m proud to endorse these outstanding Democratic candidates who will work to get the virus under control, rebuild the economy and the middle class, and protect Americans’ health care and preexisting conditions protections from Republican assault. They’re dedicated to shoring up and strengthening our democracy, a project that’s going to take time and require all of us — but it begins by electing Democrats right now. So give these candidates your vote — and vote early if you can, either by mail or in person.”
Upon receiving news of the endorsement, Kahele exclaimed, “It’s such an honor, and I’m humbled to be endorsed by an island son of Hawai‘i. This means so much to me. I’m excited and hope to bring the values of aloha and hard work to the United States Congress, just like President Obama did to the White House. I’m fired up and ready to go.”
Kahele shared a brief video today on his Twitter, Facebook and Instagram platforms. It will also be available on his campaign website.