Republican state Rep. Gene Ward of Hawaii has announced he will retire due to ongoing health issues, effective March 31. At 82, Ward has served the Hawaii Kai and Kalama Valley district for nearly three decades, first in the House from 1990 to 1998 and then again starting in 2006. His recent health concerns, including pneumonia, have hindered his recovery and ability to participate in state affairs.
In a statement, Ward expressed his struggles with various health setbacks in recent months, saying that while he fought to recover, the process had become increasingly difficult for him. This decision comes at a challenging time, as he has not been able to attend legislative meetings in person since the session began on January 15 but has engaged through Zoom calls.
Ward’s commitment to his district was steadfast. State Rep. Diamond Garcia, who previously served as Ward’s office manager, emphasized that Ward remained an active participant in legislative discussions, keeping up with bills and contributing to caucus meetings from home. Garcia recalled a recent conversation where Ward was still lively and asking questions during legislative discussions.
Throughout his career, Ward focused on issues that mattered to his constituents, such as support for families facing economic challenges and advocacy for Native Hawaiian issues. He also worked on notable legislative efforts, like House Bill 517, which aimed to transform parking spaces at the historic Iolani Palace into a more pedestrian-friendly area, although it did not progress this year.
Ward’s legacy extends beyond local politics. A Vietnam veteran, he served from 1999 to 2004 as a senior democracy adviser at the U.S. Agency for International Development, promoting democratic practices globally. His dedication to serving the public earned him a unique place in Hawaii’s political landscape, with no challengers in the last election—a testament to his long-standing support among constituents.
Following Ward’s retirement, the Republican Party has a process to fill his position. They will submit candidates to Governor Josh Green, who will appoint someone to carry on Ward’s mission. Party Chair Tamara McKay affirmed their intention to honor Ward’s contributions before moving to replace him.
Ward left a heartfelt message for his community, emphasizing the importance of the “People’s Office” continuing to serve their needs. Governor Green expressed gratitude for Ward’s enduring service and wished him well in his recovery.
This transition occurs at a time when Hawaii is looking for strong leadership to address challenges, and the impact of Ward’s absence may resonate within the legislature. Community members and political observers alike will be watching how the state navigates these changes.
As the political landscape evolves, it’s important to consider how leaders like Ward shaped policies and represented their communities, paving the way for future representatives. His contributions reflect a dedication to public service that resonates strongly in today’s fast-paced political climate.
For more on current developments and representation in Hawaii, you can check sources like the Hawai’i State Legislature.
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