Hawaiian politicians are heading into uncharted waters in 2014, when they will navigate the first election cycle since statehood without the late Sen. Daniel K. Inouye.

Inouye, who died from respiratory complications in December, was the unofficial leader of the state’s Democratic Party, often helping boost candidates into higher office.

With his absence, and a rare open House seat on the table, many in the state’s farm team view 2014 as their shot to ascend to Congress. This cycle is on track to show the most political action in decades. …

Republicans say their most promising candidates view the gubernatorial race as the more winnable statewide contest. Viable candidates will likely pass on a run for Senate.

As a result, the power jockeying will take place in the 1st District race, an open contest thanks to Colleen Hanabusa’s Senate bid (against Brian Schatz) . …

Photo courtesy cliff1066™.

—Chad Blair