Mr. Chair, I claim the time in opposition to this amendment. Mr. Chair, we all want the same thing for our military families. While our servicemembers carry out the mission to protect and defend our Nation, we have a duty to care for the loved ones whom they leave behind. For families with school-aged children, that means investing in safe, stable, high-quality schools where every child can learn, grow, and thrive. This amendment does the opposite.
2026 MidtermsSolid SeatD+38D shift +10$463K raised
Jill Tokuda
Representative · Hawaii · Democrat
Jill Tokuda
House Floor
Recent comments in the House
Mr. Chair, I strongly oppose this amendment, which would require the Department of Defense to develop plans to eliminate 200,000 civilian employees. I have news for you: This administration already did that, and I saw the consequences with my own eyes. I had lunch with junior enlisted marines in Hawaii. They told me it took months to fix their broken washing machines, a full year to fix a sink in a barracks room. I saw windows duct taped and mold painted over. Childcare rooms were empty because they had no staff to care for servicemembers' children.
Mr. Speaker, earlier this month, I stood on a farm in Haleiwa for the blessing of the Pacific Gateway Center's new land. I looked out at the fields and at the farmers and families gathered there ready to work, grow food, and to build something of their own. It was immigrants focused on strengthening their community, our economy, and creating a better life for their children. As I stood there, I could not stop thinking: This is it. This is America. This is what a true celebration of 250 years of America looks like.
Biography
Jill Tokuda, a former nonprofit executive, was elected as the U.S. Representative for Hawaii’s 2nd congressional district in 2022. She focuses on strengthening disaster preparedness, expanding access to healthcare, and supporting Hawaii’s economic resilience. Tokuda serves on the House Agriculture and Armed Services Committees, where she has advocated for federal wildfire relief and improved food security for island communities. She approaches her work with a collaborative, solutions-oriented style, aiming to address Hawaii’s unique challenges and represent her district’s diverse voices in Congress.
Education
- B.A. in International Relations Major and Japanese Minor, George Washington University, Washington, DC1997
Professional History
U.S. Representative
2023-PresentRepresenting Hawaii's 2nd district
Nonprofit Executive, Nisei Veterans Memorial Center
2019–22Member, Hawai‘i Senate
2007–18(Majority Whip, 2009–14)
Consultant
Business Owner
Staffer, Lieutenant governor Mazie Hirono
Policy Focus
Agriculture and Food26%
Native Americans15%
Health13%
Government Operations and Politics6%
Notable Legislation
Key legislative actions from Jill Tokuda's record in Congress.
Disaster Relief Funding
Secured federal disaster relief funding for Maui following the 2023 wildfires.
Agriculture Support
Advocated for and obtained federal support to strengthen Hawaii’s local agriculture and food security.
Affordable Housing
Supported increased federal funding for affordable housing initiatives in Hawaii.
Native Hawaiian Programs
Championed federal investments in Native Hawaiian education and health programs.
Committee Assignments
View details →- House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party
- House Committee on Agriculture
- House Committee on Armed Services
Rep. Jill Tokuda FAQ
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