A few weeks into the Congress, after a sequestration battle and a trip home, Hawaii’s delegation sat down together this afternoon, and all came away pledging to work together, a joint release said.

With two new members and the loss of senior senators, a question has been how the delegation would work together. Sen. Mazie Hirono’s spokesman Nathan Click said members have been talking. But because of scheduling conflicts including Rep. Tulsi Gabbard’s leave for National Guard duty, Monday was the first time all four have been able to sit down together.

Each released a statement in the joint release:

“Hawaii’s delegation is small but our strength has always been our teamwork and ability to work together. Since starting this new Congress, each of us has been focused on delivering results for our state and we have been working closely to coordinate those efforts. I will continue to partner with our great team to ensure Hawaii’s voice is heard in Washington,” Hirono said.

“Working together as a delegation makes us stronger for the people of Hawai`i,” said Sen. Brian Schatz. “Whether it’s ensuring that we continue our economic recovery or making Hawai‘i the test bed for clean energy nationally and internationally, I’m committed to continuing the tradition started by Senators Inouye and Akaka of working hand-in-hand with the entire delegation in order to better serve Hawai‘i.”

“I am pleased that we were able to gather as a delegation to outline some of our priorities for the 113^th Congress, and ensure everyone is on the same page,” said Rep. Hanabusa. “Because of our different committee assignments, I am hopeful this will be a productive session and I look forward to continuing to work together for the people of Hawaii.” 

“Each of us brings a unique background and skill set to Congress, and we are collectively working hard to make sure that Hawai‘i is well-served, by protecting our kupuna, growing our economy through supporting small business, reducing our national deficit, and investing in clean energy, education and infrastructure. Our meeting today is just one of many we will hold to determine how best we can serve the people of Hawai‘i together,” Gabbard said.

— Kery Murakami