General Election Comments from Congresswoman Hirono

(Honolulu, Hawaii - November 4, 2008)

Congresswoman Hirono on her Congressional Race:

"Mahalo to everyone for their votes and support in my election. Serving in the U.S. Congress is a privilege and a commitment I take seriously. I am honored to have the voters' trust and look forward to returning to Washington D.C. to represent Hawaii's second district.

We have many critical issues facing our country and Hawaii. There is much work to be done to rebuild our economy, invest in energy independence, improve our public education system and end the war in Iraq.

I am filled with a sense of renewed optimism as I return to Washington to work with my colleagues as we move this country and Hawaii in a new direction under an Obama-Biden Administration."

 Congresswoman Hirono on Presidential Race: Obama-Biden

"The message is clear; voters want a new direction for this country with a President who puts people first. Barack Obama's message of change had a broad, positive reach and spoke to many people all across this nation. His was a uniting, not divisive voice.

President-Elect Obama will put our country back on track both domestically and internationally. It is clear from the record turnout that voters wanted to turn the page on the past eight years. The Obama-Biden Administration is committed to rebuilding an economy that creates jobs and understands the significance of supporting the middle class. We need to get started now and I look forward to working with President Obama and a Democratic majority in congress."

Congresswoman Hirono on Oahu's Mayoral Race: Mufi Hannemann

"I congratulate Mayor Hannemann on his victory tonight. He and Ann ran spirited campaigns and I appreciate the choices they offered Honolulu voters. Honolulu faces many challenges with the economy and tourism and I look forward to continue working with the Mayor to address these issues and keep Honolulu a great place to live."

Congresswoman Hirono on the Rail Issue:

"I support the public having their voices heard on mass transit. I stand ready in Congress to ensure that we get our share of the federal dollars to help build it."

Congresswoman Hirono on Kauai's Mayoral Race: Bernard Carvalho Jr.

"I congratulate Bernard Carvalho Jr. on his victory tonight. Bernard and JoAnn Yukimura ran spirited campaigns and I appreciate the choices they offered Kauai voters. Hawaii faces many challenges with the economy and tourism and I look forward to working with Bernard to address these issues and keep Kauai and all the islands a great place to live."

Congresswoman Hirono on Big Island's Mayoral Race: Billy Kenoi

"I congratulate on Billy Kenoi on his victory tonight. Billy and Angel Pilago ran spirited campaigns and I appreciate the choices they offered Big Island voters. Hawaii faces many challenges with the economy and tourism and I look forward to working with Billy to address these issues and keep the islands a great place to live."