Representative Holt announces resignation on House floor

Representative Holt told colleagues on the House floor that he is resigning immediately, saying, "I'm resigning today. Today's gonna be my last day in the house." He used his remarks to thank his wife, staff and mentors who helped him move from session staff to an elected representative, and to encourage continued attention to funding for Hawaiian-related needs.

Why it matters: A mid-session resignation creates a vacancy and can change committee assignments, local representation and the political dynamics of pending legislation. Holt referenced past appropriations and settlements affecting Hawaiian programs and agencies, signaling continued focus on those issues among his colleagues.

Holt recounted his career path, starting as session staff in 2009, work in the Senate president's office and service as assistant sergeant at arms, and credited mentors including Senator Donna Kim and staff members. He thanked multiple named staff and friends and praised their support. In his remarks Holt cited a prior $600,000,000 figure in relation to HHL and settlements and noted increased funding to the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA), urging continued appropriations.

Shortly after the resignation remarks, Representative Quinlan presented a certificate honoring an individual identified as "Daniel" for advocacy on behalf of Native Hawaiians, the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) and OHA; the certificate text and remarks emphasized Daniel's advocacy and sacrifice.

The House recessed and later returned, then adjourned until 12:00 noon on Tuesday following a floor motion. The transcript does not record personnel or procedural next steps for filling the vacancy; those will follow the chamber's rules and relevant state law.