Brian Schatz's Success and Achievements in Timeline

Updated: April 7, 2025

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Brian Schatz. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Brian Schatz is an American politician currently serving as a U.S. Senator for Hawaii since 2012. A Democrat, his political career includes serving in the Hawaii House of Representatives (1998-2006), chairing the Democratic Party of Hawaii (2008-2010), and as the state's Lieutenant Governor (2010-2012). Schatz is a prominent figure in Hawaiian politics and now represents the state in the U.S. Senate.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

1998: Elected to Hawaii House of Representatives

In 1998, Brian Schatz was elected to the Hawaii House of Representatives, representing the 24th district, after defeating Republican Sam Aiona.

2000: Schatz reelected

In 2000, Brian Schatz was reelected to the Hawaii House of Representatives for the 24th district.

2002: Elected to 25th House district

In 2002, Brian Schatz was elected in the newly redrawn 25th House district, defeating Republican Bill Hols.

2004: Schatz reelected to 25th House district

In 2004, Brian Schatz defeated Republican Tracy Okubo and was reelected to the 25th House district.

2007: Pacific Century Fellow

In 2007, Schatz was a member of the 2007 class of the Pacific Century Fellows.

September 18, 2010: Won the Democratic nomination

On September 18, 2010, Brian Schatz won the Democratic nomination for lieutenant governor with 34.8% of the vote, becoming Neil Abercrombie's running mate.

2014: Won special election

In 2014, Brian Schatz won the special election to complete the remainder of Daniel Inouye's Senate term with just under 70% of the vote.

2016: Won first full six-year senate term

In 2016, Brian Schatz ran for and easily won his first full six-year Senate term against only nominal opposition.

2016: Schatz reelected

In 2016, Brian Schatz was reelected as senator with 73.6% of the vote.

2017: Commencement Speaker at Pomona College

In 2017, Brian Schatz was invited to be the commencement speaker for the Class of 2017 at Pomona College, his alma mater.

December 20, 2022: Passage of the Yes in My Backyard (YIMBY) Act

On December 20, 2022, the Yes in My Backyard (YIMBY) Act, co-authored by Schatz and Senator Todd Young in 2021, passed as part of the $1.7 trillion spending bill (H.R. 2617).

2022: Schatz reelected again

In 2022, Brian Schatz was reelected as senator with 71.2% of the vote.

April 2023: Most popular senator

In April 2023, Morning Consult reported that Schatz was the "most popular" senator in the country, averaging an approval rating of 65% and a disapproval rating of 24%.