Former HSTA President May Seek State Senate Seat

Corey Rosenlee is looking to run for the office currently held by Mike Gabbard.

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One of the most prominent advocates for public school teachers in Hawaii is considering a run for political office.

Corey Rosenlee, who was president of the Hawaii State Teachers Association for six years, has filed organizational paperwork with the state Campaign Spending Commission.

Corey Rosenlee. 

The former union leader is eyeing state Senate District 20, which represents Kapolei, Makakilo, portions of Ewa, Kalaeloa and Waipahu.

The seat is currently held by Sen. Mike Gabbard. It’s not clear whether Gabbard, a Democrat, is seeking re-election, but all 25 Senate seats are up in 2022 because of 10-year reapportionment.

Rosenlee indicates he will run as a Democrat. He stepped down from the HSTA job, which is term-limited, on June 30, with the intention of returning to teaching social studies at Campbell High School.

Rosenlee is also preparing to launch a campaign website.

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