Maile Shimabukuro, who was first elected to serve in the Hawaii Legislature 20 years ago, will not seek another term as state senator.

Shimabukuro, whose District 22 Senate seat represents Ko Olina, Nanakuli, Maili, Waianae, Makaha and Makua, made the announcement Monday.

She previously served in the state House and was appointed to the Senate in 2010 to replace then-Senate President Colleen Hanabusa when she was elected to Congress. 

A press release said Shimabukuro looks forward “to spending more time with family and friends, focusing on legal services work, volunteering, and appreciating life’s simple pleasures.”

The incumbent also took the unusual step of endorsing Rep. Cedric Gates to succeed her in office.

“I believe he has the vision and commitment to continue to deliver for the Leeward Coast,” she said of Gates, who represents House District 45, which includes Makua, Makaha and Waianae.

Open Senate races rarely go uncontested, and the primary may well draw other Democrats. 

Republicans are also likely to field candidates. Shimabukuro survived a recount against the GOP’s Samantha DeCorte just a year ago, winning by a scant 40 votes.