David Anthony Tarnas is a Democratic state representative for Hawaii's 8th House District, covering areas including North and South Kohala such as Hawi, Halaula, Waimea, Makahalau, Waikii, Waikoloa, Kawaihae, and Mahukona. He has served in this role since winning the seat in 2018 after defeating incumbent Democrat Cindy Evans in the primary, following an earlier unsuccessful run in 2016; he was re-elected in 2020 and 2022. Previously, he represented Kohala and Kona from 1994 to 1998. Notable achievements include chairing the Water, Land & Hawaiian Affairs Committee and the Judiciary & Hawaiian Affairs Committee , as well as co-authoring the Hawai'i Ocean Resources Management Plan. He prioritizes reducing the cost of living through tax relief, exempting health care from the state GET, and supporting housing measures like accessory dwelling units and phasing out short-term rentals.

Education and Political Experience

Tarnas has lived in District 8 for over 30 years, where he and his wife raised their family and ran a business. His professional background spans public and private sectors, including work as a community organizer for nonprofit environmental health organizations and serving as Hawaii County Chairman for the Democratic Party of Hawaii . In his initial legislative term , he held leadership roles as Vice-Chair of the Education Committee and Chair of the Ocean Recreation and Marine Resources Committee. Specific details on formal education are not detailed in available records.