Rep Joe Souki Resignation letter

May 4, 2017

First, I would like to thank the members of this body for their confidence in me, and for allowing me the opportunity to lead the House of Representatives.

Five years ago, I did not seek this position, but was asked to lead this body in order to bring all members’ voices to our deliberations.  I hope that to some extent, I was able to do that.  I was humbled to lead this body, and i has been an honor to serve the people of this stated.

There were some disappointments this session such as the failure to pass the Compassionate Aid in Dying and the immunity for our lifeguards bill.  With the dynamics in this legislature, we were also unable to agree with the Senate on funding to complete Honolulu’s rail system.  I regret that on these issues we were not able to do the work of the people.

It is with much gratitude that I thank the members of the House, and especially those who have stood with me through thick and thin.  I would like to thank the people of Hawaiʻi, particularly the people of Maui, who I will continue to sere with the same dedication and compassion that I have always given for all these years.

I am resigning my position as Speaker of the House effective immediately.