Senator Lynn Pualani DeCoite is a dedicated public servant who has proudly represented the people of Hawaii in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. As a third-generation homestead farmer, Senator DeCoite has learned the value of hard work and sustainability from a young age, instilled with the ethos of living off the land.
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Born In Honolulu and raised on Molokaʻi, Senator DeCoite attended Molokaʻi High School before continuing her education at Molokaʻi Community College. Her upbringing on the family farm laid the foundation for her commitment to agriculture and environmental stewardship, values that would shape her career in public service.
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Before serving in elected office, Senator DeCoite served on the Hawaii State Board of Agriculture and as Chairperson of the Farm Service Agency, where she advocated for the interests of farmers and rural communities. She was deeply involved in various community organizations, volunteering her time on boards such as Lokahi Pacific, Hikiola Cooperative, and the Molokai Homestead Farmers Alliance, where she served as president.
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Senator DeCoite’s journey in politics began in the State of Hawaii House of Representatives from February 2015 to June 2021, where she served with distinction representing House District 13. Since June 2021, she has proudly served in the Senate. She represents Senate District&nbsp;7, encompassing Hāna, East & Upcountry Maui, Moloka‘i, Lana‘i, Kahalo‘olawe, and Molokini. She is Assistant Majority Floor Leader and is Chair of the Energy, Economic Development, and Tourism Committee, as well as serving on committees on Agriculture and Environment and Ways and Means.
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Senator DeCoite and her husband Russell, with whom she owns and operates L&R Farm Enterprises, INC, known for the cultivation of the famous Molokaʻi purple sweet potato, have been married for 32 years and are the proud parents of three children and grandparents to two grandchildren.
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Senator DeCoite’s tireless commitment to her constituents and exemplary leadership have earned her recognition as a “Woman of Excellence” in 2019. She continues to be active in organizations such as the National Foundation of Women Legislators (NFWL), advocating for women’s empowerment and representation in government.
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Senator Lynn DeCoite remains steadfast in her commitment to listening to the needs of constituents and working with stakeholders from all backgrounds, she strives to create a better future for all residents of Hawaii.