U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie said today his resignation from Congress will be effective Feb. 28.

In a statement, Abercrombie said the declaration will “enable state elections officials to plan for a timely and cost-effective special election for the First Congressional District to select a successor who will carry on the work of the people.”
Three weeks ago, Abercrombie announced his intention to resign in order to concentrate fully on his campaign for the governor’s seat.
“The past few weeks have reminded me that my 19 years in Washington, D.C., as a U.S. Representative from Hawaii have allowed me to build strong, lasting, and life-long relationships with many colleagues on both sides of the aisle on Capitol Hill and throughout the federal government,” he said in his statement.
“Most of all, I have been privileged to be a part of an effective Hawaii congressional delegation which has accomplished so much to improve the quality of life for the people of Hawaii and nation. I take all of these experiences and friendships with me into the future, as part of a proven partnership involving the state government, Congress, and now the White House, to change the direction and leadership of our state.”