Hawai‘i’s local businesses showed up strong in our nation’s capital and reminded everyone that innovation, resilience, and the aloha spirit are among our most powerful contributions. Whether it’s clean energy, community health, ag-tech, culture, or tourism, our people are building a future that’s both rooted in tradition and ready for tomorrow.
Bringing Hawai‘i to Washington, D.C. isn’t just symbolic, it’s strategic. When we share our stories, our values, and our solutions on the national stage, we create space for Hawai‘i in the conversations that shape our future. That visibility turns into opportunity for our small businesses, our workers, and our communities.
Mahalo to Senator Hirono, the Chamber of Commerce Hawai‘i, and the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority for making Hawai‘i on the Hill possible. I’m proud to represent our state and the people who make it so special. Let’s keep lifting each other up — and let’s keep sharing Hawai‘i with the world.
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Recently, I had the privilege of commissioning Kauanoe A.D. Jackson as Judge of the Circuit Court of the Third Circuit at the Keahuolū Courthouse in Kailua-Kona. It was a powerful moment — not just for Judge Jackson and her family, but for our entire Hawai‘i Island community.�
Judge Jackson has done just that for over 15 years as a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney standing up for those who often feel voiceless or overlooked. She brings a sharp legal mind, a steady presence, and a deep understanding of the unique cultural and social dynamics of our state. Her appointment is a victory for the kind of justice that truly reflects the people it serves.�
Congratulations, Judge Jackson. You are more than ready for this moment — and Hawai‘i is lucky to have you on the bench.
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Today, I had the honor of signing Act 173 into law — a major step forward to protect the earnings of Hawai‘i’s young performers — and an even greater honor of proclaiming Maia Kealoha, the star of Disney’s Lilo & Stitch, as Junior Governor of the State of Hawai‘i!
Act 173 ensures that at least 15% of a child performer’s income is placed in a trust they can access when they become an adult, shielding their hard-earned money from exploitation or mismanagement. It’s about fairness, security and setting our keiki up for success.
Maia is proof of the incredible talent growing right here at home — proud, gifted, and grounded. With this law, we’re making sure young performers can chase their dreams and still have something to show for it when they grow up. And if today was any indication, Junior Governor Kealoha is more than ready to lead the way.
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