Frontrunner
Richard T. Bissen Jr.
Lifelong Maui Nui resident (Pāʻia, Piʻihana, Keʻanae, Kahakuloa)
- Housing for kamaʻāina
- Water as public trust
- Wildfire recovery & resilience
Maui County · Mayoral election
Maui Elections 2026
A clear-eyed civic guide to the most significant election in Hawaiʻi this cycle — recovery, housing, and Maui’s future.
Countdown to Primary Election
26
Days
23
Hrs
20
Min
53
Sec
Quick links
Race in brief
Two clear frontrunners. One credible third. Seven also on the ballot. Prominence reflects reported standing — not an endorsement.
Frontrunner
Yuki Lei Sugimura
Born and raised in Wailuku; lives in Kula, Upcountry
- Pipes, Permits & Pavement
- Fiscal responsibility
- Permitting reform
Credible third
P. Denise La Costa
Originally from Longview, WA; Maui resident since January 1, 1990
- Cost Cutter (affordability)
- Homes Together / repeal Bill 9
- Transparent, honest government