SENATOR HENRY J.C. AQUINO ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT FROM THE SENATE

News Release from Senate Democratic Caucus, Sept 24, 2025

HONOLULU – Senator Henry J.C. Aquino (District  19 - Pearl City, Waipahu, West Loch Estates, Hono‘uli‘uli, Ho‘opili) released the following statement today announcing his retirement from the Hawaiʻi State Senate, effective Sunday, November 30, 2025:

“It has been an honor to represent residents, neighbors, supporters, friends and family in the Hawaiʻi State Senate.  I’ve also had the opportunity to serve with amazing colleagues, past and present, who have worked hard to address the needs of our great State—an absolute privilege to have served with you all.  I’m grateful for the Senate and House staff along with the individuals who have worked in my office during my time in public service.

My decision to retire from the Hawaiʻi State Senate was made with deep and thoughtful consideration after discussions with family members and close friends.  This decision was not made lightly, and it is my belief that this best serves the needs and interests of the people of Senate District 19.

(TRANSLATION: By resigning before my term is up, I enable Gov Green to name my successor.  This fake ‘incumbency’ gives Democrats the best chance to retain the SD19 seat in the 2026 election.  That is why we pull this trick so often.)

During my legislative career, I’ve consistently made decisions based on the best information available and the importance of how and who will be impacted.  This is consistent with my personal life as well.  I’ve always thought of those around me and what I can do to make their lives better. While serving in the State Senate and previously in the State House has been one of the honors of my life, I have shifted focus on prioritizing my values for time with my family while continuing to serve our communities. 

After my retirement from the State Senate on November 30, 2025, I will be joining Hawaiʻi Public Policy Advocates LLC, a locally based consulting firm that emphasizes non-profit organizations and association management as Vice President of Community Affairs. 

(TRANSLATION: I am quitting to become a big time lobbyist.)  

I will also continue my role as Executive Director for the Waipahu Community Association—a non-profit organization. These opportunities will allow me to continue to grow and serve for the betterment of our local communities. 

It has been a privilege to serve and I would like to thank everyone who made my 17 years in public service one I will never forget.” 

Senator Aquino has served a combined 17 years in the Hawaiʻi State Legislature, first as a Representative for District 38, chairing the Committee on Transportation.

As Assistant Majority Whip, Chair of the Senate Committee on Labor and Technology, and Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services, Senator Aquino has played crucial roles in passing significant legislation.

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REPLACEMENT DETAILS: SD19 Dems will name three potential replacements and submit those names to Gov. Green.  Green will pick one who will serve until 2026.   SD19 was set for the 2028 election, but because of HRS 17.3, a special election will be held coinciding with the general election in 2026.  The seat will be up again in 2028.

FUN FACT:  HRS §84-18(a) prohibits, for one year, former legislators from disclosing “any information that by law or practice is not available to the public and that the former legislator or employee acquired in the course of the former legislator’s or employee’s official duties or use the information for the former legislator’s or employee’s personal gain or the benefit of anyone.”

FUN FACT:  HRS §84-18(b) prohibits, for one year, former legislators from lobbying the legislature or executive “on any matter for compensation.”

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STATEMENT OF REPRESENTATIVES CHUN AND LAMOSAO REGARDING SENATOR AQUINO'S RETIREMENT ANNOUNCEMENT

News Release from House Democratic Caucus, Sept 24, 2025

Honolulu, Hawaiʻi – House Representatives Cory M. Chun (D-35, Portions of Pearl City and Waipahū, Crestview) and Rachele F. Lamosao (D-36, Waipahū) issued the following joint statement today: 

"We are deeply grateful for Senator Henry Aquino's years of service in both the House and the Senate, and his dedication to Waipahū and the Central and West Oʻahu community. His advocacy, devotion as a husband and father, and readiness to take on difficult challenges reflect his deep commitment to the people he represents. Through his leadership, policy work, and support for Hawaiʻi's community partners, he will continue to leave a lasting impact on our state and our local communities." 

(TRANSLATION: We expect to be two of the three nominees sent to Green.)

FUN FACT: In 2022, Lamosao accepted $2,000 contribution from bribery convict Ty Cullen.  LINK)

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COVERAGE:

• SA: Sen. Aquino is leaving Legislature for lobbying firm position | Honolulu Star-Advertiser  "The firm, founded by local attorneys Melissa Pavlicek and Stephen Teves, has lobbied at the Legislature on behalf of companies, trade associations, unions and nonprofit social service organizations. Clients in recent years include Kamehameha Schools, Hawaiian Airlines, HGEA, Hawai‘i Foodbank, Bishop Museum, Apple Inc., Turo, Sports Betting Alliance and the Hawaii Building Owners and Managers Association, according to the Hawaii State Ethics Commission."
• HNN: Senator Henry J.C. Aquino announces retirement from Hawaii State Senate
• KHON: Pearl City state senator announces retirement