Kawakami for Lieutenant Governor

Derek Kawakami is running for Lieutenant Governor because he believes Hawaiʻi families deserve steady, trusted, and experienced leadership. Born in Hilo and raised on Kauaʻi, Derek grew up in a working family shaped by Hawaiʻi, its people, and its values. He understands what is at stake for local families and why so many are worried about whether the next generation will be able to stay in the place they call home.

Across Hawaiʻi, families are being squeezed by the rising cost of living, a shortage of affordable housing, houselessness, health care challenges, and the need for stronger economic opportunity. These challenges affect every island, and they require leaders who can bring people together, work across communities, and stay focused on solutions that make life better for working families.

As Mayor of Kauaʻi, Derek has taken on those same challenges and delivered results: building hundreds of homes for seniors, working families, and people experiencing houselessness, with thousands more underway; reducing illegal vacation rentals by more than 96 percent; resurfacing hundreds of miles of roadway; improving safety near schools; strengthening public safety; investing in infrastructure; and supporting local businesses. He has also led Kauaʻi through COVID, severe weather, and natural disasters, while advancing wildfire and sea level rise protections to help communities prepare for the challenges ahead.

As Lieutenant Governor, Derek will bring that same results-focused approach to every island, leading with aloha, accountability, and common sense. Working alongside the Governor, counties, and communities across the state, he will focus on making life more affordable, expanding housing, addressing homelessness, supporting working families, preparing for future disasters, and building a stronger future where the next generation can afford to stay and thrive in Hawaiʻi.