Richard Onishi

Richard Hiroyuki Keela Onishi was born on May 3, 1954, in Hilo, Hawaii. He is an American politician who served as a Democratic member of the Hawaii House of Representatives from 2012 to 2024. He represented the 3rd District from 2012 to 2022, and subsequently represented the 2nd District from 2022 to 2024. He is married to Joni Yasue Onishi and has three children: Nicole, Lissa, and Whitney.

Education

Onishi attended Honolulu Community College and the University of Hawaii for his higher education.

Political Experience

Onishi served twelve years in the Hawaii House of Representatives, spanning from his initial election in 2012 through 2024. During his tenure, he represented two different districts as redistricting occurred. His representation included advocating for his constituents in the 3rd District before the district boundaries were redrawn, after which he represented the 2nd District. He did not seek re-election following the conclusion of his term in 2024.