[what's up]

The reason Hanabusa was not appointed is that Reid wanted the appointment made by the end of the year.

That would have meant that Hanabusa would have preceded incoming Sen. Mazie Hirono.

Hirono wanted to be the first Asian-woman-buddhist appointed to the Senate; Hanabusa would have stolen her fire.

Yes, we were about to have 2 Asian-Woman-Buddhist senators from HI.

[Jyotishi]

Hirono considers herself a non-practicing Buddhist.

[x]

Sounds like he's going from one place-holding, time-serving position to another. He doesn't seem like he could win on his own.

Does the appoined Schatz get senority over the elected Hirono? Could be awkward.

[Arthurio]

I don’t profess to be an expert on Hawaii politics, but it seems like this was a very bad pick for Abrecombie. It is sure to have angered powerful elements of the Democrat machine there, but I am not sure who will be pleased by Schatz to offset this. There could be primary challenges for governor and senator in 2014, as well as even an opening for a Republican. I believe Lingle’s win was owed in large part due to fracturing within the Democrat Party machine.

[dennisw]

Yes, we were about to have 2 Asian-Woman-Buddhist senators from HI.

Hawaii -- The wackiest state in the Union. This new guy Schatzie says he will be pushing for tribal recognition (translation: Casinos) for Hawaiian natives