Iwamoto Defeats Saiki in Democratic Primary

In a surprising upset, former state Board of Education member Kim Coco Iwamoto defeated incumbent House Speaker Scott Saiki in Hawaii’s 2024 Democratic primary for District 25, securing 52.5% of the vote against Saiki's 47.5%. This victory marks Iwamoto's first win after two previous unsuccessful attempts against Saiki. Iwamoto's win is set to significantly impact the House leadership in the upcoming 2025 session. The election saw high voter turnout, with many opting for mail-in ballots. Additionally, other notable races included Trish La Chica leading over newcomer Ken Inouye in the House 37 race, and Ben Shafer leading Clayton Hee in Senate District 23.