Hawaiʻi GOP Signals Change with Complete Leadership Overhaul

KAILUA KONA, Hawaii - May 29, 2025 - PRLog -- The annual Hawaiʻi State Republican Party Convention took place on Kauaʻi, May 24–25, to elect executive leadership and other party officers, and to vote on rules amendments.

Over 300 voting delegates from across the islands attended, along with alternates, guests, and several elected officials, including Senators Brenton Awa and Samantha DeCorte, and House Reps Lauren Matsumoto, Diamond Garcia, Elijah Pierick, Garner Shimizu, and Julie Reyes Oda.

West Hawaiʻi was represented by 12 delegates, including WH GOP Chair Monique Perreira and Communications Chair Sylvie Madison. East Hawaiʻi GOP Chair Marie Ruhland also attended, along with 22 delegates.

Senator Brenton Awa announced he is considering a run for Congress against incumbent Rep. Jill Tokuda, which was met with loud applause.

Controversial rules changes were overwhelmingly rejected by standing vote after Rep. Diamond Garcia decisively opposed them from the floor.

The entire slate of challengers to the incumbent state party leadership secured their positions, delivering a clear mandate for change and an opportunity to further strengthen and focus the party's direction.

Successful businessman, family man, faith leader, and former Senate candidate Art Hannemann comfortably defeated Tamara Mckay by a wide margin. He brings a unifying message focused on party strength and success in 2026, backed by deep community ties and strong business experience.

"...all of us here are extremely committed to the good, to the future, this beautiful state of Hawaii. We'll do everything ... to empower the house and senate, local and national positions.... We truly believe the motto of [Hawaii], 'Ua Mau ke Ea o ka ʻĀina i ka Pono' A life of the land Is perpetuated in righteousness. Our responsibility is to make sure that every elected official in the house and the senate, and every bill that comes out of the House and the Senate, echoes that statement.", Hawaii State Chair Art Hannemann

Shirlene Ostrov, former Chair of the West Hawaiʻi GOP, won 1st Vice Chair (Coordinated Campaigns) by a landslide. Former State Rep. Bob McDermott was elected Chair of Candidate Recruitment. The only incumbent on the new slate was Hannemann supporter Leslie Jones, re-elected as Secretary.

New officers also include Dennis Mataia for Treasurer, Steve Yoder for Communications, Jackie Beckman for Community Service, and Susan Duffy for Coalitions.

The West Hawai'i Republican Party welcomes open dialogue with residents, businesses, and local media.

https://westhawaiigop.org