Lt. Governor Shan Tsutsui Will Run in 2014

On Thursday, Lieutenant Governor Shan S. Tsutsui formally announced his candidacy to continue serving the State of Hawaii in his current capacity, via www.electshan.com and facebook.com/ElectShan.

Throughout his time in public service, Tsutsui has demonstrated exemplary leadership skills, including helping to navigate the Legislature through budget shortfalls and contentious financial times. Shan has and continues to work collaboratively with leaders and constituents alike, not concerning himself with the usual politics, but instead seeking to foster a positive working environment where the responsibility and authority is shared and all are able to reap the benefits of focusing on the issues at hand.

“It has been an honor to serve as Lieutenant Governor this year. In this short time, I have learned much about the responsibilities of the office and look forward to continuing to work on initiatives and programs, including the R.E.A.C.H. Out program for Intermediate/Middle Schools to help enrich the education and lives of our keiki,” Tsutsui said. “Going forward, I will continue to follow my philosophy of balancing the needs of today while keeping an eye on the future. Moving Hawaii forward will require great commitment, sacrifice and compassion on the part of all of our residents, and I am equally dedicated to that goal as Hawaii’s Lieutenant Governor.”

Serving as Tsutsui’s Honorary Campaign Chairperson is retired United States Senator Daniel K. Akaka, who has been, and continues to be, an inspiration to Tsutsui.  “Shan is a shining example of the future of leadership in Hawaii.  He is a relationship builder, forming genuine connections with others, and works to bring out the best in people,” said Akaka.  “His vision, dedication and commitment to the residents of Hawaii demonstrate the true aloha spirit that will lead Hawaii into the future.”

Shan S. Tsutsui, 41, and his wife, Lyndelle, reside on Maui with their three daughters, Mikayla, Kaylee and Kenna. He succeeded to the office of Lieutenant Governor after the position was vacated by Senator Brian Schatz at the close of 2012. He was elected in 2002 to the Hawaii State Senate, representing Central Maui. From 2010 to 2012, he was selected among his peers to serve as President of the Senate, making him the first Senator from Maui to serve as Senate President. Tsutsui became Senate Majority Caucus Leader from 2002-2010. Tsutsui also served as the Vice Chair of Ways and Means (2005-2010); Vice Chair of the Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs (2007-2010); Vice Chair of the Committee on Tourism (2003-2004); and as a member of the Committees on Health, Education, Military Affairs, Housing, Human Services, and Government Operations throughout his time in office. He is a former small business owner and financial advisor. For more information on Shan’s election campaign, please visit www.electshan.com