State Rep. Jon Riki Karamatsu, D-41st (Waipahu, Village Park, Waikele), filed his nomination papers today for the lieutenant governor's race. Last June, he authorized his campaign team to form an exploratory committee.

Karamatsu said he met more than 40,000 people over the past year and based on the feedback he received regarding his potential candidacy, he decided to enter the race.

"My campaign's strength is not only based on my hard work ethic, but my strong track record in passing legislation to encourage investments into Hawai'i's economy, protect our money from leaving the state, maintain project-based learning in our public schools, enhance public safety, address our physician shortfall and promoting equality for all," Karamatsu said in a statement.

Karamatsu was elected to the House of Representatives in 2002 and is currently serving his fourth term. He chairs the House Judiciary Committee and has held a variety of leadership positions during his tenure, including Vice Speaker of the House and Majority Whip.