Videos
Public Speeches
Senator Mike Gabbard Speaks on the Meaning of Aloha for the 48th Annual March for Life - January 29, 2021
Mike Gabbard, was invited to speak at the virtual rally for the 48th Annual March for Life, the world’s largest annual human rights demonstration, on January 29, 2021. The March for Life theme was “Together Strong: Life Unites.”
The Senator spoke on the meaning of “Aloha.”
Public Performances
As a life-long musician, Senator Gabbard has utilized his talents over the years to support a variety of community events and legislative functions including performing at the renowned "Capitol Idol," West Oʻahu’s Annual Leeward Music Festival, and the Kapolei Sunset Festival. Please scroll down to view some of the highlights over the years…
Senate Floor Speeches
Senator Gabbard occasionally gives speeches on the Senate Chamber floor related to legislation, as well as to honor various individuals and groups for their respective accomplishments. He's been known to occasionally accompany his speeches with music and song (including harmonica!)
Senator Mike Gabbard Sings Before Session - May 1, 2018
Sen. Gabbard opened the Senate floor session on May 1, with a song he wrote highlighting some of the major bills of the 2018 Legislative session.
Moment of Contemplation
Every year, at the start of the Legislative Session, senators are given the opportunity to share a quote, song, or poignant story with their colleagues prior to the daily order of business. The "Moment of Contemplation" often provides inspiration and a reprieve from the fast-paced nature of the day.
Moment of Contemplation - May 2, 2017
On May 2, 2017, as the legislative session neared its end, Senator Gabbard gave the "Moment of Contemplation" on the Senate floor. He spoke about relationships...
Senate District 20 Highlights
Over the years, Senator Gabbard has participated in numerous events in his district, and statewide, from school graduations and anniversaries to business grand openings. With Covid-19 in 2020, speeches and performances were recorded and sent to the schools and organizations to be viewed and celebrated virtually. You can view some of them here.
Congrats to Youth Challenge Academy Class 52! - May 31, 2020
On May 31, Senator Gabbard performed and gave the keynote speech for the Youth Challenge Academy Class 52 - right down the street from where he lives. “I witnessed these fine young cadets graduate from somewhat troubled youth to motivated young men and women with values, life skills, and education..”
Agriculture & Environment
After completing five sessions as Chair of the Senate Committee on Agriculture & Environment, Senator Gabbard has passed powerful legislation related to sustainable ag and protecting the environment. He's often invited to speak on certain bills or issues of interest.
Senator Mike Gabbard Ocean Voyages Institute Interview - June 18, 2019
In June 2019, the nonprofit group called Ocean Voyages Institute / Project Kaisei collected over 40 tons of ghost nets, plastic, and garbage in 24 days…. As Chair of Ag & Environment, Senator Gabbard was interviewed by OVI for a documentary in order to raise awareness of the dire state of our oceans. “Many mahalos to Mary Crowley, founder and executive director of Ocean Voyages Institute, and her hard-working crew for the work you do!”
Hawaiʻi Hemp Conference - June 10, 2017
Senator Gabbard performs a song he wrote before his keynote at the Hawaiʻi Island Hemp Conference, to celebrate the passing of his hemp bill (SB 773 - Act 199), allowing farmers to apply for hemp licenses year round instead of only from January to April.
Kapolei Sunset Festival on Oʻahu, August 17, 2007
Senator Gabbard performs "E Kupono me ke Aloha" (taking a stand for what's right), a song he co-wrote with Leon Siu, at the Kapolei Sunset Festival on Oʻahu, August 17, 2007.
Capitol Idol III - April 20, 2015
Senator Gabbard performs a medley of folk songs from the 1960s, including "Scarborough Fair", "Punky's Dilemma" and "Sounds of Silence" (Simon and Garfunkel), "The Motorcycle Song" (Arlo Guthrie), "The Times They Are ‘A Changin" (Bob Dylan), and "Both Sides Now" (Joni Mitchell).
“Capitol Idol”
Capitol Idol was founded by Senator Gabbard as a fundraiser for the Hawaiʻi Food Bank in 2012. The show, which plays off Fox’s American Idol, features members of the Senate, House and Executive branch singing and dancing for individual and team trophies. In addition to bragging rights, the event raised nearly $1,800 for Hawaiʻi Foodbank in 2014.