Senator Les Ihara, Jr.

Les Ihara, Jr. is a Democratic state senator representing District 10 in Hawaii. Born on April 19, 1951, in Honolulu, Hawaii, Ihara is Hawaii's longest-serving state lawmaker and a veteran legislator known for his reform-oriented approach to governance.

Throughout his legislative career, Ihara has focused on government transparency, public integrity, campaign and election reforms, environmental and consumer protection, aging and civil rights issues, and public access and engagement.

Political Experience

Ihara has served in the Hawaii Legislature for 36 years, with his tenure spanning two chambers:

• Hawaii House of Representatives : Served eight years and held the position of House Majority Floor Leader. He also chaired the House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee.

• Hawaii State Senate : Has been serving for over 28 years. He has held several leadership positions, including Senate Majority Policy Leader and Majority Floor Leader.

Ihara currently serves on multiple committees, including Commerce, Consumer Protection, and Health; International Affairs and the Arts; and Public Safety, Intergovernmental, and Military Affairs. He also co-chairs the Joint Legislative Access Committee and the Joint Committee on Aging in Place.

Notable Achievements and National Service

Beyond his state legislative work, Ihara has been recognized for his effectiveness and contributions to democratic governance. He served as Co-Chair of the National Conference of State Legislatures' Legislative Effectiveness Committee from 2011 to 2014. He has also been involved with national organizations focused on civic engagement, including the Kettering Foundation Board of Directors and the National Coalition for Dialogue & Deliberation .

Additionally, Ihara served as a delegate and Vice President at Hawaii's 1978 Constitutional Convention, demonstrating his long involvement in shaping the state's governance.