No reason was given for the departure of Leong, who was appointed to the job just last year by Speaker Calvin Say to replace Patricia Mau-Shimizu, who left to become the Hawaii State Bar Association’s new executive director.

A replacement has not been named for Leong, and it may have to wait until House Democrats decide whether to stick with Say or name Joe Souki or another House rep as speaker. Neither man is said to have the 26 votes necessary to seal the deal, and, barring some serious horse-trading, the speakership may not be settled until session begins next month.

“C.J. has had a long and distinguished career in the House of Representatives, culminating as the House Chief Clerk,” Say said in a statement. “Her service to the House, the Legislature and to the public has been stellar, and it is always difficult to lose someone of her caliber.”