[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.

[jjotto]

Schatz will be sworn-in this week in the 112th congress, giving him seniority over the senator-elect who won’t begin until the 113th congress.

Yup, that’s how it works.