WASHINGTON – Democratic National Committee Chair Debbie Wasserman Schultz and DNC AAPI Caucus Chair Bel Leong Hong issued the following joint statement in response to the passing of Rep. Mark Takai:

“We are heartbroken by the loss of Representative Takai. As a fourth generation Hawaiian, he dedicated his life to serving our country. He was a long-time member of the Hawaii National Guard, deploying to the Middle East in Operation Iraqi Freedom, and served two decades in the Hawaii House of Representatives before his election to Congress in 2014. He was a fierce advocate for his fellow veterans and drew inspiration from his own immigrant heritage, fighting throughout his career to expand opportunities for all Americans regardless of background.

“We are grateful for his passion and his work. He brought the true Aloha spirit to Congress, and to everything he was associated with. We will miss him terribly. Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.”