Ed Case

Edward Case was born on September 27, 1952, in Hilo, Hawaii. He grew up on the island of Hawaii and attended high school at Hawaii Preparatory Academy. Ed Case's early life in Hawaii played a significant role in shaping his perspectives and future political career. After high school, he went on to attend Williams College, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts. He later earned a Juris Doctor from Hastings College of the Law at the University of California.

Ed Case was elected to represent Hawaii's 2nd Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives in a special election held on November 30, 2002. He succeeded Patsy Mink, who had posthumously won re-election after her death. Case served from 2002 to 2007, focusing on issues such as military spending, education, and healthcare. His tenure in Congress was marked by a moderate political stance and a desire to bridge partisan divides.

As a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, Ed Case played a key role in introducing and supporting the Akaka Bill, officially named the Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Act of 2003. Introduced to Congress on October 15, 2003, the bill aimed to establish a process for native Hawaiians to gain federal recognition similar to that of Native American tribes, a long-standing issue in Hawaiian politics. The bill sought to address and reconcile historical injustices against native Hawaiians.

In 2006, Ed Case decided to challenge incumbent Senator Daniel Akaka in the Democratic primary for the U.S. Senate with hopes of bringing new leadership to Hawaii. Despite a spirited campaign, Case was defeated by Akaka, who was a well-entrenched figure in Hawaiian and national politics. Case's challenge was seen as controversial by some, as Akaka was a respected incumbent with strong support. The result ended Case's first period in national office, at least temporarily.

In 2010, following the death of Congressman Neil Abercrombie, a special election was called to fill the vacancy in Hawaii's 1st Congressional District. Ed Case initially declared his candidacy for the seat, seeking to return to Congress. However, on May 18, 2010, he withdrew from the race, citing a desire to avoid splitting the Democratic vote and ensuring the best chance for a Democratic win in the election.

Ed Case won the Democratic primary for Hawaii's 1st Congressional District on August 11, 2018. His victory marked a successful political comeback, as he returned to the U.S. House of Representatives after more than a decade. The win was significant given the crowded and competitive field of candidates. Case's campaign focused on his experience, moderate political stance, and knowledge of both state and federal legislative processes.

On January 3, 2019, Ed Case was officially sworn in as the U.S. Representative for Hawaii's 1st Congressional District, marking his return to Congress after an absence of over ten years. His successful return to the U.S. House was part of a wider Democratic wave in the 2018 midterm elections. Case immediately began to focus on key issues such as climate change, renewable energy, military readiness, and healthcare reform.

On July 1, 2019, Ed Case, reinforcing his commitment to climate action, co-signed the Green New Deal resolution, aimed at addressing climate change and economic inequality. The resolution called for sweeping reforms to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions, create high-paying jobs, and provide universal access to clean air, water, and nature while balancing economic and environmental interests. Case's support underscored his commitment to safeguarding Hawaii's unique environment and ecology.

Ed Case was present in the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021, when rioters stormed the building in an attempt to disrupt the certification of the 2020 presidential election results. The event was a significant moment in U.S. history, as members of Congress, including Case, were forced to evacuate and seek shelter while police and security worked to regain control. Despite the chaos, Congress reconvened later that night to affirm Joe Biden's victory.

Ed Case was re-elected to represent Hawaii's 1st Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives during the 2022 midterm elections. Holding his seat against a Republican challenger, Case's win reinforced his role as a senior member of the Hawaiian delegation. His continued representation focuses on advancing economic growth, enhancing education, and ensuring environmentally sustainable policies for Hawaii.