DNC Chair Tom Perez, DNC Vice Chair Grace Meng, and DNC AAPI Caucus Chair Bel Leong-Hong released the following statement on the passing of former Senator Daniel Akaka of Hawaii:

“Our country and the state of Hawaii lost a great American today. As the first Native Hawaiian to serve in the U.S. Senate, Senator Daniel Akaka was a fierce advocate for the people of Hawaii. From securing federal money to improve social programs for Native Hawaiians to being a leading voice in persuading the United States to formally apologize for its overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaii, Senator Akaka always put his constituents first. He spent his entire life fighting for justice and opportunity for all Americans, and there is no doubt we will miss his ‘aloha’ spirit. Our prayers are with Senator Akaka’s wife, Millie, his five children, and his entire family at this difficult time.”