“I want to thank Sen. Akaka for his service to Hawaii and the nation. For nearly four decades, first in the House of Representatives and then in the Senate, Sen. Akaka has fought hard for the people of Hawaii. He is a tireless advocate for Hawaii’s residents and a true ambassador of aloha. He has been a willing and loyal partner and we have worked very well together over these many years. We have much more to do and I look forward to working with him over the next two years.  Kanieala, thank you for your friendship and unwavering support. Irene and I wish you and Millie all the best in your future endeavors.”
>> U.S. Sen Daniel K. Inouye

“His soul is one with Hawai’i. His love for Hawai‘i and ours for him is as one. He is a true son of Hawai‘i that we welcome back home with hearts full of the aloha that is Daniel Akaka. The words aloha and Akaka are interchangeable. Daniel Akaka is Hawai‘i.”
— Gov. Neil Abercrombie

“I would like to thank Sen. Akaka for his lifetime of public service — and for all he has done for the people of Hawaii. He is an example of how one can be a great leader with humility and grace. Because of that, he has been a role model to me throughout my own career. I wish him, Aunty Millie and his family nothing but the best for a prosperous and exciting future.”
>> U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, D-urban Honolulu

“For the past 35 years, Sen. Akaka has been a powerful advocate for the people of Hawaii.  I am grateful for his life of service to Hawaii and our nation.”
>> U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono, D-rural Oahu, neighbor isles

“I would like to convey my personal gratitude and aloha to Sen. Akaka, Millie and their ohana. As Sen. Akaka has done throughout his public service career, he has acted with what he believes is in the best interest of the state of Hawaii, putting the people of Hawaii before any personal interest. We will miss his understanding hand, wise counsel and gentlemanly demeanor when he retires. While some may be curious, there will be plenty of time to discuss my own personal plans in light of his announcement. Today, however, is a day to sing Sen. Akaka’s praises. And there is much to sing about …”
>> Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann

“Sen. Akaka has served our state honorably for nearly 22 years and has been a strong representative of the Aloha Spirit to his colleagues in Washington, D.C. I worked closely with the Senator to gain support for the Akaka Bill and I still have hopes that this important legislation will come to fruition during the remainder of his term. I wish he and Millie the best as they make plans to return to our island home.”
>> Former Gov. Linda Lingle