Brenton Patrick Chokei Kawika Awa is a Republican member of the Hawaii State Senate representing District 23 on Oʻahu, which includes Kāneʻohe, Kahaluʻu through Lāʻie, Kahuku to Mokulēʻia, Schofield Barracks, and Kunia Camp. Born in Kaʻaʻawa and raised in Kahaluʻu, he is a former television news anchor who achieved a come-from-behind victory against a 10-year incumbent in 2022 and was re-elected to a four-year term in 2024 without campaigning or accepting donations. As of 2024, he serves as Minority Leader of the Hawaii Senate, known for casting over 1,000 "no" votes in his first two sessions, including the sole "no" on 10% of passed bills. Notable achievements include planting 70 ulu and mountain apple trees in Kahaluʻu for community food access and restoring coconut trees in Haleʻiwa, as well as organizing a 12,000-attendee homecoming concert for American Idol winner Iam Tongi.

Education and Political Experience

• Graduate of Kahuku High School.
• Worked nearly a decade as a TV news anchor and reporter for KITV4 and Hawaii News Now, starting as an intern in 2009; also served as a substitute teacher in the Windward District, helping revive Kahuku High's news broadcast and agricultural farm.
• Elected to Hawaii Senate in November 2022; re-elected November 2024.
• Serves on Senate committees including Government Operations and Commerce.
• Republican Floor Leader ; Republican Leader .