Donna Mercado Kim is a Democratic politician representing Senate District 14 in Hawaii. Born in 1952 or 1953 in Honolulu, she has served in the Hawaii State Senate and previously in the House of Representatives and Honolulu City Council. Notable achievements include serving as President of the Hawaiʻi Senate from 2013 to 2015, Vice President of the Senate from 2003 to 2008 and 2011 to 2013, and sponsoring over 40 bills while cosponsoring more than 360 during her career. She currently chairs the Senate Committee on Higher Education , vice-chairs the Education Committee, and serves on the Ways and Means Committee. Kim is involved with community groups like the Kalihi Business Association and Hawaii Korean Chamber of Commerce.

Education and Political Experience

Limited details are available on her formal education. Politically, Kim entered office in 1982 by winning a close Hawaii House of Representatives race by 29 votes, representing Moanalua, Aiea, and Kalihi communities until 1985. She then served on the Honolulu City Council before returning to the Legislature. She has held continuous state senate service in District 14, with key leadership roles as noted above.