KHON News

Obama Gains with Hawaii Superdelegates

By Tannya Joaquin

Senator Barack Obama-- about 150 delegates away from clinching the democratic nomination-- received support today from two Hawaii Superdelegates-- Senator Daniel Akaka and Committee Woman Dolly Strazar.

Senator Akaka told KHON2 by phone "I feel we need to reflect the vote of the people of Hawaii."

Obama beat Clinton in Hawaii's Democratic caucus back in February 3 to 1, and that's how he's sliced up our congressional contingent.

Senator Inouye endorsed Hillary Clinton early on.

Neil Abercrombie, Mazie Hirono and now Dan Akaka are backing Obama.

A spokesperson for Senator Inouye says he will "not join the chorus urging Clinton to leave the race."

But that "He will work hard to ensure a united and strong party that will be victorious in the general election."

The two other decided Hawaii Superdelegates split.

Hawaii's three remaining Superdelegates will be named next weekend at the State convention.

As for talk Obama will make a trip home to Hawaii?

"It's up to the national campaign to decide if he's coming out here" says Chuck Freedman from Hawaii for Obama. "But we understand they're looking at it."

Obama campaign officials say they want to, but their sole focus right now is securing the Democratic nomination.

"Until that occurs, there are no plans for Senator Obama to come to Hawaii" stresses Andy Winer.

Senator Akaka believes an Obama visit could happen before the Democratic National Convention in August.

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