About Senator Dru Kanuha
Dru Kanuha was born in Kealakekua and raised near the shore, in the ahupua‘a of Hōlualoa. His father Jerome’s family goes back many generations in the Keōpū ahupua‘a. His mother Debbie was born in Pennsylvania, raised in California, and lived in Kona for more than 40 years.
Dru attended Moku‘aikaua Preschool, Kahakai Elementary, and Kealakehe Intermediate and High Schools. He went on to attend the University of San Diego, earning his degree in political science and business administration while serving as vice president of the Hawai‘i Club.
While in college, he became interested in the potential of political involvement to make a difference in the community that raised him.
“I grew up in a family where everything we did was in service to the community. It’s been community first my entire life.”
After a lifetime of service through Kai ‘Ōpua Canoe Club, his family foundation and other community engagements, Dru was inspired to make an impact through public service. He was elected to the Hawai‘i County Council in 2012 to advocate for his community and move things forward. In 2018, he was elected to the Hawaiʻi State Senate.
Senator Dru Kanuha with family, friends, and supporters at Opening Day 2019.
By the conclusion of his first term, he earned the trust and confidence of his peers and was selected Senate Majority Leader – a position that moves the priorities of Kona, Kaʻū and Volcano to the forefront.
Dru is running for re-election to continue his service to the community that raised him. After the reapportionment of 2022, Senate District 3 now includes Kona, Kaʻū and Volcano.
Mahalo for the support and endorsement of Hawaiʻi Island’s public servants and working families!
