Hawaii Gov. Josh Green cruises to Democratic primary win, sets up fall matchup with GOP nominee

Hawaii Governor Josh Green secured a decisive victory in the Democratic primary, overcoming three lesser-known challengers. His strong approval rating and substantial campaign funds contributed to his win, positioning him as a favorite for re-election. The state has not had a Republican governor since 2010, and Green’s administration has highlighted its response to recent natural disasters.

• Hawaii Gov. Josh Green won the Democratic primary against three challengers.
• Green entered the primary with a 56% approval rating.
• His opponents were David “Duke” Bourgoin, George “Teva” Lucas-Tadeo, and Lauren Kapoliahiʻiaka Shim.
• Bourgoin had previously run against Green for governor in 2022 without significant success.
• Lucas-Tadeo and Shim did not have campaign websites and had not raised funds.
• Green had raised approximately $3.5 million, significantly more than his challengers and the Republican nominee.
• Hawaii has not had a Republican governor since 2010.
• Green cited his administration’s response to the 2023 Lahaina wildfire and recent storms as factors in his popularity.
• The Cook Political Report rates the general election race as favoring the Democratic Party by 13 points.