NEWLY ENERGIZED MINORITY CAUCUS CHOOSES LEADERSHIP

News Release from Hawaii House Republican Caucus, Nov 9, 2018

HONOLULU, HI – The House Minority Caucus solidified their leadership this morning at the State Capitol.

Representative Gene Ward (HD17 – Hawaii Kai, Kalama Valley) returns as House Minority Leader and Representative Lauren Matsumoto (HD 45 – Schofield, Mokuleia, Waialua, Kunia, Waipio Acres, Mililani) will serve as the House Minority Floor Leader.

Representative Bob McDermott (HD 40 – Ewa, Ewa Beach, Ewa Gentry, Iroquois Point) and Representative Cynthia Thielen (HD 50 – Kailua, Kaneohe Bay) return to their posts as Assistant Minority Leader and Assistant Minority Floor Leader.

Freshman Representative Val Okimoto (HD 36 – Mililani Mauka, Mililani) was elected Minority Whip.

"Our caucus is very excited for this session," Rep. Ward stated. "For years, our State has faced issues such as affordable housing, homelessness, and high cost of living. With a new counterpart in Senator Kurt Fevella and caucus member in Representative Val Okimoto, we look forward to introducing our ideas to fix our State's biggest problems."

"I look forward to stepping into a leadership role within our caucus as the Minority Floor Leader to work towards addressing the concerns of the people of Hawaii," said Representative Matsumoto. "I recognize the challenges our communities face daily, and I will collaborate with the caucus to make a positive change in our state."

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