The State Capitol Is Buzzing About This Prominent Hawaiʻi Lawmaker 

CB Feb 3, 2026: … The biggest open secret at the State Capitol is that Senate Vice President Michelle Kidani is ill and could soon be leaving the Senate.

Privately, those who have been in meetings with her say she often loses her train of thought. Last session, she became confused while presiding over a Senate floor session in President Ron Kouchi’s absence. She now has a helper who guides her around the Capitol and accompanies her to hearings.

Civil Beat talked to more than a dozen lawmakers, staff and past and current top officials who have frequent interaction with Kidani. Several told Civil Beat the 77-year-old lawmaker is suffering from dementia and has been under a doctor’s care….

If Kidani retired by May 8, the last day of session, Gov. Josh Green likely would make an interim appointment. A special election to fill the District 18 seat — which represents Mililani Town, Waipi‘o Gentry, Crestview, Waikele parts of Waipahu, Village Park and Royal Kunia — might then coincide with the August primary election….

Several people at the Capitol say Kidani had wanted to stay in office until her term ends in 2028. Late last year, she even scheduled a reelection fundraiser.

But all that appears to have changed and a decision on her political future could come later this week….

read … The State Capitol Is Buzzing About This Prominent Hawaiʻi Lawmaker - Honolulu Civil Beat

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STATEMENT FROM SENATE VICE PRESIDENT MICHELLE N. KIDANI

News Release from Senate Democratic Caucus, Feb 4, 2026

HONOLULU, HAWAI‘I – Senator Michelle N. Kidani (District 18 — Mililani Town, Waipi‘o Gentry, Crestview, Waikele, portion of Waipahu, Village Park, Royal Kunia) released a statement today regarding a media inquiry on her ability to serve:

“My health is a private matter, and speculation or reporting about it without my consent is deeply concerning. I remain capable of representing my district and continue to carry out my duties responsibly in consultation with my physician.

My focus remains on serving my constituents. If the time comes that I determine I can no longer fully and faithfully serve, I will make that decision to resign my seat.

I want to sincerely thank my colleagues, the various agencies, unions and mostly my constituents who have placed their trust and support in me throughout my years in office. It is truly an honor and privilege to represent you and to work on behalf of our community.”

In a separate statement, State Department of Education Superintendent Keith Hayashi expressed his support for Senator Kidani and her longstanding commitment to public education:

“I have had the privilege of working closely with Senator Kidani over many years, and I have always respected her as a thoughtful and steadfast advocate for Hawaiʻi’s public school students.

She has consistently shown up for our schools, not only through her leadership at the Legislature, but also by being present in our communities, listening to educators, and engaging directly with students and families. Most recently, her support for expanding access to free school meals reflected her deep understanding of how policy decisions affect students’ ability to learn and succeed.

Behind the scenes, she has been a trusted partner who asked hard questions, sought input, and kept students at the center of her work. Her commitment to public education and to the well-being of our keiki has made a lasting difference, and I look forward to continuing our work together in service of Hawaiʻi’s students and communities.”

Senate Education Committee Chair Donna Mercado Kim underscored Senator Kidani’s leadership on education policy, noting:

“Senator Michelle Kidani has continued to fulfill her responsibilities to her community and to the Legislature with dedication and professionalism. I have worked closely with her for more than seven years—she as Vice Chair of Higher Education and I as her Vice Chair on the Education Committee—and she has consistently demonstrated thoughtful, steady leadership.

The alignment of the Education and Higher Education Committees was Senator Kidani’s recommendation, made in the best interest of sound education policy and continuity across our system. Her record of service speaks for itself, and I stand in support of her continued leadership.”

Office of Hawaiian Affairs Maui Trustee Hulu Lindsey emphasized Senator Kidani’s continued presence, judgment, and service to the community, stating:

“I have known Senator Michelle Kidani for fourteen years and have seen her lead with heart, humility, and deep commitment to the people she serves. Senator Kidani remains present, grounded, and thoughtful in her work. She knows her community, understands the issues before her, and continues to exercise sound and caring judgment.

Senator Kidani’s service should be met with dignity, fairness, and appreciation for the wisdom she continues to bring to public life.”

Senator Glenn Wakai (District 15- Kalihi, Māpunapuna, Airport, Salt Lake, Āliamanu, Foster Village, Hickam, Pearl Harbor, and portions of ‘Aiea and Pearl City) emphasized Senator Kidani’s long-standing support from her constituents and her continued leadership, saying:

“Senator Kidani continues to be a respected political force. The people of Mililani and Waipahu have kept her in office for 18 years. She has done incredible work for her community, for women, and for our keiki. It’s not up to the media to determine when she leaves office. That is entirely her decision.”

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