Hawaii Senator Daniel Inouye died Monday at age 88. His office said he died of respiratory complications. The Democrat was a World War Two hero who became the first Japanese American to serve in Congress. He served 49 years, second only to the late Robert Byrd at 51 years.
During his tenure in the Senate, he was a close friend of Alaska Senator Ted Stevens, an important supporter of Alaska issues and a champion of indigenous rights.
Senator Lisa Murkowski says Inouye dedicated almost his entire life to public service from his military work–to the senate. She says his loss is heartbreaking.
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Lori Townsend is the chief editor, senior vice president of journalism and senior host for Alaska Public Media. You can send her news tips and program ideas for Talk of Alaska and Alaska Insight at ltownsend@alaskapublic.org or call 907-550-8452. Read more about Lori here.
