Bert Kobayashi (20)

Bertrand Yoshito Kobayashi is an American politician and Democratic member of the Hawaii State Legislature, representing District 19 in the Hawaii House of Representatives from 2012 to 2024. He served a combined 28 years in the legislature before retiring after a cerebrovascular incident. Notable achievements include legislation on living wills, "Nursing Homes Without Walls," HIV confidentiality, and support for establishing Kapiʻolani Community College. In March 2026, he received the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette, for strengthening ties between Japan, Hawaii, and the United States, particularly Hawaii's sister relationship with Fukuoka Prefecture.

Education and Political Experience

• Served in the Hawaii House of Representatives , winning the 2012 election after Republican Barbara Marumoto retired.
• From 1994 to 1997, acted as deputy director for community hospitals in the Hawaii Department of Health, aiding the transition of the Community Hospital Division to an independent agency.
• Earlier legislative service contributed to 28 total years in office, focusing on health and community issues.