Lauren Kealohilani Cheape Matsumoto was born on August 16, 1987, and represents Hawaii's 38th District in the State House of Representatives. A Republican legislator, she has served in the Hawaii State House since 2012, initially representing the 45th District before redistricting moved her to the 38th District in 2022. Her district encompasses Mililani, Waipio Acres, and Mililani Mauka—her hometown—as well as portions of Schofield, Mokuleia, Waialua, and Kunia.

Matsumoto's family has deep roots in Hawaii, tracing back to 1859. She is perhaps best known as Miss Hawaii 2011, a title she earned before competing in the Miss America 2012 pageant. During her reign, she performed community service by visiting schools across the state with a jump rope routine to encourage children to lead healthy lifestyles and volunteer in their communities. She has also volunteered at an orphanage in Malawi, Africa.

Currently serving as House Minority Leader, Matsumoto is a mother of two young children and has focused her legislative efforts on cost-of-living issues, affordable housing, and tax reform throughout her tenure.

Education

Matsumoto attended schools entirely within her hometown district, graduating from Mililani Waena Elementary School, Mililani Middle School, and Mililani High School.

Political Experience

• Elected to the Hawaii State House in 2012 for the newly formed District 45, running unopposed in the Republican primary
• Currently serves as House Minority Leader
• Member of the House Committee on Energy and Environmental Protection
• Introduced legislation to eliminate the General Excise Tax on food and medicine
• Sponsored multiple bills over 12 years aimed at lowering income tax rates
• Serves on various legislative committees and leadership positions within the State House