WASHINGTON — After meeting with Democratic candidate Nate Shinagawa last month in Washington, D.C., Sen. Daniel Inouye of Hawaii endorsed Shinagawa’s campaign for the 23rd Congressional District of New York.
“Nate Shinagawa and I both began our careers in public service before the age of 30 because we recognized, at a young age, that this country offers so much opportunity and has the potential to be a model for civilized democracies around the world,” said Inouye.
“Nate’s career as a medical administrator has earned him valuable experience in the private sector while teaching him about the personal care that is critical to quality health care. His time spent as a Tompkins County legislator has helped prepare him for the rigors of representing his district at the federal level.
“I am proud to endorse Nate as a candidate for New York’s 23rd Congressional District.”
As president pro tempore of the Senate, Inouye is the second-highest-ranking member of the Senate and the highest-ranking Asian American elected official in U.S. history. He also holds the distinction of being one of the longest-serving elected officials in history, having represented Hawaii in the Senate since 1963.
Inouye is a veteran of World War II, and was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Bill Clinton for bravery during combat.
“For the past seven decades, Sen. Inouye has been a dedicated public servant of the highest caliber,” said Shinagawa. “He is a true American hero who represents government at its best. Having his support behind my campaign is a truly an honor.”
Shinagawa, 28, was the top vote-getter among three candidates in the June Democratic primary, and will face the Republican incumbent, Rep. Tom Reed, in the November general election.