Senate:   Democratic Senator Daniel Inouye, who will turn 216 years old next year, is seeking his 34 term in the Senate.  Of course, that's an exaggeration - but only a small one!  Truthfully, the octogenarian seeks just his 9 ninth term in 2010.  First elected to the upper chamber in 1963, Inouye is the second longest serving senator in Washington.  Indications are he's indeed in the race again.  Unless that changes, his re-election is sure.  Republican Governor Linda Lingle is barred from seeking a third term in the Governor's Mansion, and she is considering a challenge for Inouye's seat.  The only way the GOP has a chance of getting it would be for him to retire and her to run.  Even then, it would be no better than even money.  As it stands, however, this is a Solid DEM Hold.

Governor:   Linda Lingle, a Republican in a sea of Democrats, cannot run for a third term as governor.  Her exit leaves but a small chance that the GOP will keep this governorship.  What chance Republicans do have is probably maximized by Lt. Governor Duke Aiona's decision to run.  On the other hand, the impact of Lingle's popularity - even if Aiona can capitalize on it - will be lessened by the positive voter impressions of U.S. Representative Neil Abercrombie and Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann, two formidable Democratic contenders.  I'd like to say the GOP will stay in power in Hawaii statehouse, but I just don't see it.  To call it a Mod DEM Gain might be underestimating the Democratic victory.

As you might imagine given the stats I reported above, neither of Hawaii's two congressional districts will be competitive next year.

Please check out the Hawaii state page for more information.

Next stop: Idaho



Filed under:  Hawaii  HI Senate  HI Governor