President Barack Obama today released the following statement on the resignation of U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie, who is leaving office to launch a full-time campaign to become governor of Hawaii:

“For three decades, my friend Neil Abercrombie has been a teacher, a representative and a fighter for the people of Hawaii.
"He has worked tirelessly for those who wear our nation’s uniform and fought to preserve the beauty of our many natural treasures.
"We will miss his passionate voice in Congress, and as he leaves the House, Michelle and I extend our thanks for his service and our best wishes for the future.”