Honolulu civil trial attorney John Choi has thrown his hat in the ring in the run for Hawai‘i’s second-highest position of lieutenant governor.

Choi announced his candidacy on Thursday, the same day former Hawai‘i Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke announced she would be taking an indefinite leave of absence without pay, following months of public scrutiny in which she is linked to a corruption case involving an “influential legislator” who allegedly received about $35,000, and possibly in a paper bag.

Hawaiʻi Gov. Josh Green designated Keith Regan to serve as acting lieutenant governor, following Luke’s decision to step down.

Kauaʻi Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami previously announced his candidacy for lieutenant governor on March 17.

In a news release from Choi’s campaign, it states they are launching a people-first movement focused on restoring public trust, strengthening accountability, and lowering the cost of living.

“We must stop the ‘pay to play’ culture in politics with stricter laws on campaign donations,” Choi said. “We must move to government-funded elections to save our democracy.”

Choi’s campaign reflects the values that define Hawaiʻi: resilience, unity, and aloha for one another.

At a time when many residents are asking for more transparency, stronger ethics, and leadership for the people, Choi said, this campaign is about bringing government back to its core purpose: serving the people.

“This campaign is for every family that is struggling with the high cost of living, every small business working to stay afloat, and every resident who believes Hawaiʻi deserves leadership grounded in integrity and action,” said John Choi. “The People of Hawaiʻi are ready for a new generation of leadership that puts community before special interest, restores confidence in public service, and builds a future where anyone can succeed.”

Choi’s vision for Hawaiʻi includes getting money out of politics with government-funded elections. This will empower local communities, supporting working families, creating economic pathways to ensure that government decisions are guided by transparency, responsibility, and the long-term well-being of the people.