HILO, Hawaii – Three names have been chosen by County Democrats as nominees to fill the district 2 state house seat left vacant when Representative Clift Tsuji died suddenly on November 15.

Moana Hokoana Keli`i, Stacy Higa and Chris Todd have been chosen from a list of seven Democrats who put submitted their names before the deadline.

The choices were made by a selection committee of 15 people during a special meeting at the new Keaukaha Elementary School cafeteria. The House District 2 Chair for the Democratic Party, Micah Alameda, explained the process in an interview (video above).

Micah Alameda, House District 2 Chair for the Democratic Party

Governor David Ige will now appoint one of the three nominees to fill the district 2 house seat which served Hilo.

Jonathan Wong, Laura Acasio, and Dennis “Fresh” Onishi also submitted their names for consideration. Onishi was not present on Saturday for the nomination process.

Former councilmember J Yoshimoto also put his name forward but withdrew prior to the selection process, Alameda said.

A memorial service was held for the late Rep. Tsuji in the House Chamber at the State Capitol on Friday.