Inouye Not Conceding to Solomon in Big Isle Senate Race

Problems on the Big Island led to major voting result delays on Saturday. And there’s ongoing controversy in at least one race there. 

As Capitol Watch reports:

Former state senator and Hawaii County Mayor Lorraine Inouye is not yet conceding a loss to Sen. Malama Solomon.

The fifth and final printout from the state Elections Office shows Solomon leading 47.5 percent to 46.7 percent — 4,068 votes to 3,999 in the race to represent North Hilo to Waimea.

Statement from Inouye Sunday (Aug. 12):

Under normal circumstances, I would have conceded the Senate District 4 race to Senator Malama Solomon last night.

However, due to the closeness of my race, I am in the process of fact finding to determine if Office of Elections adhered to proper and legal election procedures and whether or not our voters were denied their right to vote.

I will also be looking into any other irregularities by The Office of Elections that may have impacted the outcome, not only of my race but other races as well.

I am not fully satisfied that this election was fair and legal.

See more headlines from the Big Island.