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PRESS RELEASE FROM THE HOUSE REPUBLICAN CAUCUS
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The Hawaii State House Republican Caucus honors the legacy of Representative Gene R. Ward, who passed away today, at age 82.
“I had the honor of working alongside Rep. Ward for the past 12 years. Throughout that time, he would always say, ‘We may not have the votes, but we have the voice.’ And he lived up to that ideal every day he served,” said State House Republican Leader Lauren Matsumoto (District 38: portions of Mililani and Waipio Acres, Mililani Mauka).“As a Caucus, we will continue to be that voice and carry out that mission as his legacy.”
Ward spent more than three decades in public service, including 27 as a Representative for the Hawaii Kai, Kalama Valley and Portlock community. Rep. Diamond Garcia, who started at the State Legislature as Ward’s Office Manager, said he has lost a both a colleague and a friend. “Gene Ward was a man of vision and values,” Garcia said. “His leadership was marked by wisdom, humility and a relentless dedication to improving the lives of his constituents. He carried a deep love for the Native Hawaiian people and was passionate about protecting their culture, rights and future.”
“We will remember him as a robust member of our Caucus, contributing his passion to every endeavor and serving as a strong advocate for conservative ideals, government transparency, and common-sense principles,” Matsumoto said “We extend our deepest aloha to his ‘ohana in this time and pray for his community as they progress through this season of change.”
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PRESS RELEASE FROM MINORITY FLOOR LEADER REP. GARCIA
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It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved
colleague and friend, Representative Gene Ward, who peacefully passed away this morning at the age of 82.
As someone who had the distinct honor of working for Representative Ward before being
elected to office myself, I can say without hesitation that Gene was not just a statesman—he was a mentor, a servant-leader, and a pillar of integrity in Hawai‘i politics. His lifelong
commitment to serving the people of Hawai‘i—whether in the Legislature, the Peace Corps, or as a diplomat—has left a legacy that will long outlive his time with us.
Gene Ward was a man of vision and values. His leadership was marked by wisdom, humility, and a relentless dedication to improving the lives of his constituents. He carried a deep love for the Native Hawaiian people and was passionate about protecting their culture, rights, and future. Whether mentoring young leaders or championing issues close to the hearts of local families, Gene always led with heart.
Though we mourn this tremendous loss, we find comfort in knowing that he lived a life full of purpose and love. His legacy will continue through the lives he touched, the policies he shaped, and the values he championed.
The Ward family has issued the following statement:
“On this Aloha Friday, my father, Gene, peacefully passed away in the early morning. On behalf of my mother and I, we want to thank the community for the abundance of prayers and kind thoughts. My father did what he loved most, serving others, until the end. We will miss him, but he will live forever in our hearts.”
– Faredah and Johanna Ward
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Ward 'Ohana during this time of mourning. I humbly ask the people of Hawaii to continue lifting up the Ward family in prayer as they grieve the loss of a husband, father, and servant of the people. Let us honor Representative Gene Ward by continuing the work he began: serving with compassion, leading with courage, and always putting the people of Hawai‘i first.
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Representative Shimizu had the opportunity to chat with Cranston “Duke” Pia’s family members and Shelby regarding SB1249. "Duke’s Law" (SB1249) honors Cranston "Duke" Pia, who was killed defending his cattle in 2024. This tragedy highlights the urgent need to combat agricultural crime in Hawaii.
SB1249 establishes an agricultural crime prevention program within the Department of Agriculture to provide grants, education, administrative enforcement, and other services for the benefit of the State's agricultural industry. This law clarifies, creates, and strengthens regulations on crimes and violations related to agriculture, agricultural lands, and hunting on private agricultural lands. It also establishes clear distinctions between administrative and criminal penalties. This bill is hopefully on its way to passing.
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MILILANI HIGH SCHOOL FLOOR PRESENTATION
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It was an honor for Representative Matsumoto to recognize the Mililani High School OIA and HHSAA champions alongside the talented band students at the Hawaii State House of Representatives. She presented a certificate to each student to celebrate their dedication and achievements. Proud of the Trojans!
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PIERICK FLOOR PRESENTATION
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Representative Pierick honored and recognized the U.S. Air Force Reserve Command, 624th Aeromedical Staging Squadron, Medical Operations Flight for their mental health assistance after the Maui wildfires.
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WELCOMING AMBASSADOR LOOPES
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Representative Reyes Oda was happy to meet with Ambassador Duarte Loopes and Consul General Filipe Ramalheira during his visit to the State Capitol. She attended a community reception hosted by the Honolulu County Sister Cities Foundation. The Foundation works to facilitate communication, education, and economic development between residents and the City & County of Honolulu and people of cities of other nations.
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HONORING THE MAUI COAST GUARD
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Representative Pierick, alongside Representative Elle Cochran, recently honored the dedicated members of the U.S. Coast Guard at the Ma’alaea Station. The recognition highlighted their exceptional service and commitment to safeguarding the community. Both legislators expressed deep gratitude for the Coast Guard’s invaluable role in ensuring maritime safety and security.
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HOUSE RESOLUTIONS HCR92 AND HR88 ON HOMELESSNESS
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Homelessness remains a growing concern among residents. In response, Representative Shimizu introduced Resolutions HCR92 and HR88, which requests the Governor’s Coordinator on Homelessness and the City and County of Honolulu to establish a two-year homelessness sanctuary pilot program.
This initiative will provide a safe, designated location on public land where homeless individuals can reside while having access to essential services such as mental health support, substance abuse treatment, and employment opportunities. The program aims to reduce homelessness-related arrests and citations by offering stability and dignity. It will also allow for vehicle parking, pet companionship, and opportunities for job training and community involvement.
By relocating homeless individuals to a structured and supportive environment, we can mitigate issues in our communities while helping people transition toward long-term housing solutions. Representative Shimizu introduced Resolution HCR92 in response to HB1338, which did not advance in the legislative process. Resolution HCR92 is still under consideration.
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HONORING PRINCIPAL TROY TAMURA
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Representative Matsumoto had a wonderful time at the 2025 Outstanding Nominees in Hawaii National Distinguished Principal Award Banquet, where Principal Troy Tamura of Mililani Waena Elementary, which is her Alma mater, was recognized for his dedication and leadership. He not only serves his school but also volunteers throughout our community especially with the Mililani High School Marching Band! It was an honor for her to present him with a certificate in appreciation of his hard work and commitment to the school community.
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Remember when common sense was common? When standing up for what is right is, simply, the right thing to do? Welcome to “The RIGHT Side”: A Common Sense Conversation on The ANSWER, AM690 & FM94.3. Where Hawaii’s conservative legislators and leaders will gather to discuss our local political landscape and how it affects you, your ‘Ohana and your community. Want to join the conversation? You can call 808-913-6450 during the show which runs from 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM! Cut through the political noise and look at Hawaii from the RIGHT side! Mahalo to Savio Associates, LLC.
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Please do not hesitate to reach out to your Republican Representatives!
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Representative Elijah Pierick
House District 39
Royal Kunia, Village Park, Honouliuli, Hoopili and Waipahu
Room: 318
Phone: 808-586-8490
Fax: 808-586-8494
[email protected]
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Representative Garner M. Shimizu
House District 32
Ft. Shafter, Moanalua, Red Hill, AMR, Foster Village, Stadium, parts of Aliamanu, Halawa, Aiea, and Pearlridge
Room: 305
Phone: 808-586-8470
Fax: 808-586-9476
[email protected]
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Mahalo,
Hawaii State House Republican Caucus
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