State Sen. Russell Kokubun of Hilo has formally resigned to take a post in the administration of Gov. Neil Abercrombie.

Kokubun submitted his resignation Tuesday.

The new governor earlier this month tapped him to head up the Department of Agriculture. The post requires Senate confirmation.

The senator previously was chairman of that body’s Water and Land Committee.

Among those who have expressed an interest in succeeding Kokubun are state Rep. Faye Hanohano of Puna Former and Big Island City Council Chairman Gary Safarik.

Big Island Democratic leaders are to submit a list of three nominees for the office, from which Gov. Neil Abercrombie will choose a replacement.