Former Hawaii first lady Vicky Cayetano weighs bid for governor

Former Hawaii first lady Vicky Cayetano is considering a run for governor next year to bring a “fresh perspective” to the position.

Cayetano, 65, is currently president of the Hawaii region of the laundry services company PureStar, which includes United Laundry Services, Hawaiian Linen Supply, Maui Linen Supply and Alii Linen Services. She confirmed to the Honolulu Star- Advertiser on Wednesday that she is thinking about entering the gubernatorial race in 2022 to succeed Gov. David Ige, who is term-limited and unable to run for reelection.

“I hope to bring a fresh perspective to the state government and how we look at problems and how we find solutions,” she said.

Cayetano is of Chinese ancestry but was born in Manila. She moved to the U.S. with her family when she was 3 years old and lived in Northern California before moving to Hawaii.

In 1997 she married former Gov. Ben Cayetano and served as the state’s first lady until 2002 as her husband served his second term in office. Since leaving office she said she’s remained “very active” in the community.

“I enjoy public service, I have to say. There’s nothing more gratifying than doing something to better your community,” she said.

Cayetano is a board member for the Hawaii Symphony Orchestra, a supporter of the Hawaiian Humane Society, and said she also supports a number of health care organizations. Her laundry business notably serves Hawaii’s health care and hospitality industries and has partnered with both hospitals and hotels.

She also has been recognized for her business success. The University of Hawaii at Manoa’s School of Travel Industry Management gave Cayetano its Legacy in Tourism Award for “her contribution to Hawai‘i’s travel and tourism industry.” She also won Pacific Business News’ 2018 Women Who Mean Business Career Achievement Award.

In 2020 Cayetano was co-chair for the mayoral campaign of Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi, who she said she expects to do well in office.

She points to her time as first lady two decades ago as an inspiration for her own run for governor.

“During the time I’ve seen my husband in public service, he’s really inspired me with his commitment to making life better for the community,” Cayetano said.

Cayetano, who would run as a Democrat, is forming a campaign team and said it’s too early to discuss her political platform.

“I haven’t officially declared my candidacy … but I think through the campaign, I will definitely be rolling out my plan,” she said.

Former Gov. Cayetano served as a Democrat, while Blangiardi ran for mayor as an independent.

If Cayetano enters the race for governor next year, she could face off with former Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell and Lt. Gov. Josh Green, both of whom are possible candidates next year.

Were she to win, she would be the first former first lady and the second woman to serve as Hawaii’s governor.