Hawaii Senate vice president announces retirement

News admin June 21, 2026 0 Comments

Hawaii Senate vice president announces retirement

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – Senate Vice President Michelle Kidani has announced her retirement from the Hawaii State Senate.

Kidani’s retirement will take effect Tuesday, June 30.

She served as senator for District 18 — Mililani Town, Waipio Gentry, Crestview, Waikele, a portion of Waipahu, Village Park and Royal Kunia — for 18 years and was first elected in 2008.

In a statement released Saturday, Kidani said:

“After much reflection, and in consultation with my physician, I have made the difficult decision to retire from the Hawaii State Senate.

Throughout my years in public service, my focus has always been centered on serving my constituents to the very best of my ability, and I have always believed that if the time came when I could no longer fully and faithfully meet the responsibilities of this office, it would be my responsibility to make that decision.

I am deeply grateful to the people of Senate District 18 for the trust they have placed in me over the past 18 years. Serving the communities of Mililani Town, Waipio Gentry, Crestview, Waikele, portions of Waipahu, Village Park and Royal Kunia has been the greatest honor of my professional life.

I also extend my heartfelt appreciation to my colleagues, my staff, community partners, educators, and the many individuals who have supported me throughout my career. While I am retiring from public office, my commitment to Hawaii and to the people I have had the privilege to serve will remain unchanged.”

In February, state senators rallied behind Kidani after a news article questioned her mental health and speculated she would resign.

During her time in the state Senate, Kidani advocated for public education, served for 10 years as chair of the Senate Committee on Education and most recently was vice chair.

Kidani cited her most notable legislative accomplishments as measures that advance student well-being, educational access, student safety and support for local communities.