WASHINGTON, March 6 -- Sen. Mazie K. Hirono issued the following press release:

Today, U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) released the following statement on the passing of her friend and former colleague, Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa:

"I am saddened to hear of the passing of my friend and former colleague Colleen Hanabusa. The first woman to lead either chamber of Hawaii's state legislature, Colleen was a fierce advocate who had strong beliefs and fought for them with conviction. I had the privilege of working with Colleen in Congress, where together we worked to continue strengthening the trust relationship between the federal government and the Native Hawaiian community. I'm grateful to have known Colleen and to have worked alongsid...