Hawaii Senate Primary: Former Lawmaker Bob McDermott Wins Republican Nomination

Former Hawaii state lawmaker Bob McDermott, a Marine Corps veteran, has secured the Republican nomination for the Senate seat currently held by Democratic incumbent Mazie Hirono. McDermott’s victory came in a low-key race with limited funding. He initially won his seat in the Hawaii House of Representatives by roughly 150 votes, according to his campaign website. His campaign finance data shows that he raised just under $2,500 in individual contributions as of July and is going into the general election with about $10 cash on hand.

On the other side, Senator Hirono enjoys a significant lead and financial advantage. Her 2024 campaign brought in more than $3 million in individual donations, according to campaign finance data. She’s going into the general election with more than $2.3 million cash on hand. She has served as a U.S. Senator since 2012 and is seeking a third term.

While Hirono is considered the favorite to win re-election, her victory will be crucial for Democrats as they attempt to maintain their slim majority in the Senate. The National Republican Senatorial Committee is not expected to invest heavily in the race, recognizing the state’s Democratic leanings. Hawaii’s congressional delegation, two senators and two House members, is fully Democratic, as are the governor’s office and both houses of the state legislature.

Despite the uphill battle, McDermott is hoping to capitalize on the current political climate and make the race competitive. The general election will take place in November.

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