Keith Amemiya Joins Race For Hawaii Lt. Gov.

Jill Tokuda, Ikaika Anderson, Sherry Menor-McNamara and Sylvia Luke have already declared their intent to be Hawaii’s next lieutenant governor.

This week another Democrat entered the race — Keith Amemiya, who is currently executive director of Central Pacific Bank Foundation.

His platform is focused on building more affordable housing, supporting public education and diversifying the local economy.

Honolulu Mayoral candidate Keith Amemiya with wife, Bonny Amemiya wave at oncoming cars along King Street. October 12, 2020 — Honolulu mayoral candidate Keith Amemiya with wife Bonny Amemiya last year. He is now running to be lieutenant governor, a statewide race. Cory Lum/Civil Beat/2020

Amemiya’s entrance to the 2022 race for LG means there are now five Democrats in the running. Is the latest candidate worried about the crowded field?

“If you recall, I ran in last year’s primary for Honolulu mayor, where 15 candidates were running,” he said. “So I am used to running in a crowded field and was fortunate enough to advance as part of the top two in the general election. A crowded field doesn’t bother me and many people feel it works to my advantage.”

Amemiya lost to Rick Blangiardi.

A sixth Democrat, former Honolulu City Councilman and state Senator Ron Menor, is also reported to be interested in the LG job. He said via text Wednesday he was “still mulling it over.”

The primary is Aug. 13.

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