But earlier this morning the party heard 2-minute pitches from the U.S. senator applicants as they appealed to their fellow Democrats. Here are the highlights:

Esther Kiaaina, a former intern for Sen. Dan Inouye, aide to Sen. Dan Akaka and chief of staff for former Rep. Ed Case: “I have the most congressional experience than any other candidate in this room.”

Blake Oshiro: “I have progressive values, a record of legislative effectiveness, 11 years of maintaining relations on both sides of the aisles,” he said. He also admitted that his being “very liberal” and having never run a race statewide could make him vulnerable in 2014, but said he has already received indications of financial backing.

Ed Case: He said Hawaii had to face reality — that  ”our congressional delegation has never been in as precarious a position as it is today, not just in loss of seniority but of national leadership.” 

Colleen Hanabusa: While honored to have the endorsement of Inouye, she said the decision rests with the State Central Committee and the governor. “The most critical thing is to hit the ground running,” she said in terms of picking a new senator.

Tulsi Gabbard: “I would be the first female veteran ever in the U.S. Senate.”

Brian Schatz: He said no one can fill Inouye’s shoes but “What we want to do today is find the right person to walk in his footsteps.”

—Chad Blair