I have witnessed how education opens doors, and I know that when sound instruction takes place, students experience the joys of new-found knowledge and the ability to excel.

The question of whether or not Congress has the authority to federally recognize a Native Hawaiian governing entity is an issue that has yet to be ruled on by the courts,

As it has for America’s other indigenous peoples, I believe the United States must fulfill its responsibility to Native Hawaiians.

Unless FEMA has a direct line to the president, the people of Hawaii and the nation are at risk. FEMA must be restored as an independent agency.

A tremendous amount of needless pain and suffering can be eliminated by ensuring that health insurance is universally available.

[Akaka said yesterday the future of Hawaiian programs could hinge on whether the bill is successful.] When that happens, the courts I think will view these cases differently, … But it will be in the...

It is imperative that we make consumers more aware of the long-term effects of their financial decisions, particularly in managing their credit card debt, so that they can avoid financial pitfalls that may lead to...

[Akaka and others in the delegation downplayed the Justice Department’s statement yesterday.] Every practical policy issue raised by DOJ in our negotiations has been addressed and resolved, … Although I realize and respect that there...

A more effective international disease surveillance system is essential for global security both against a bioterrorist attack or a naturally occurring disease.

I am delighted the president has signed this bill, … Hawaii can now begin to develop alternative sources of water.

Unlike most major American cities, Honolulu is geographically insulated from the rest of the country. When disaster strikes we cannot call on neighboring states for assistance.

Congress has a duty to taxpayers to make informed decisions when carrying out its legislative, appropriation, and oversight functions. Such decisions require access to timely and accurate information, and when access is restricted, we are...

I do not believe, given her past decisions and comments on the reasons to go to war in Iraq, that Dr. Rice will be able to represent the United States without a predetermined bias from...

I am always telling our federal agencies and contractors that if they bring work to Hawaii, they need to hire Hawaii residents.

We have never intended to ‘cut into the pie’ of funding for Indian programs and services,

As long as you’re here in Hawaii you learn to have great respect for this particular goddess and you can see her work still evident today at her volcano,

This legislation would restore American confidence in our meat industry by setting a uniform national standard. It sends the right message to consumers here in the United States and around the world that our meat...

New drugs and surgical techniques offer promise in the fight against cancer, Alzheimer’s, tuberculosis, AIDS, and a host of other life-threatening diseases. Animal research has been, and continues to be, fundamental to advancements in medicine.

My intent in drafting this bill is to provide Native Hawaiians with the opportunity to reorganize their governing entity for the purposes of a federally recognized government-to-government relationship with the United States, … This is...

There is a human capital crisis in the federal government. Not only are we losing the decades of talent as civil servants retire, we are not doing enough to develop and nurture the next generation...

I am deeply saddened by this event. I am stunned that so many lives were lost in a single incident, … My heartfelt thoughts, prayers, and deepest sympathies go to the families of each Marine.