Devens confirmed as chief justice despite PAC connection
By Daryl Huff
Published: Apr. 30, 2026 at 5:42 PM HST|Updated: 16 hours ago
HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - The state Senate confirmed former labor attorney Vladimir Devens as Hawaii’s chief justice Thursday afternoon, despite concerns from some senators about his political connections.
The vote was 15 yes, five no and five yes with reservations.
Controversial PAC role
Devens watched from the gallery as senators questioned his role on the board of “Be Change Now,” the Carpenters union political action committee that ran negative campaigns against Sylvia Luke, Jill Tokuda and Ben Cayetano, all critics of rail.
Devens had apologized for not disclosing the position and said he helped the PAC with legal matters, not strategy.
“He knew the character of the organization. He chose to be a member. He wasn’t hired. He wasn’t of counsel, he wasn’t an attorney — he chose,” said state Sen. Joy San Buenaventura.
The Carpenters PAC also supported Gov. Josh Green and Kauai Mayor Derek Kawakami, the leading candidate for lieutenant governor.
State Sen. Les Ihara said the story had created fear in the community.
“Fear of external political influence on the judiciary and its court — these concerns signal distress in the system,” Ihara said.
Supporters cite experience
State Sen. Mike Gabbard, Judiciary Committee co-chair, supported Devens, despite Committee Chair Karl Rhoads’ opposition.
“Justice Devens brings both experience and a strong sense of public service. He understands that the decisions of our highest court are not abstract. They have real and lasting impacts on the everyday lives of the people of Hawaii,” Gabbard said.
State Sen. Stanley Chang said Devens’ background as a police officer sets him apart.
“This is someone who’s walked a beat and understands what life is like on the streets,” Chang said.
Background and term limits
As chief justice, Devens will lead the court, run the judiciary and set ethical standards for all lawyers.
Devens attended Kalani High School and the University of California, Berkeley, and spent six years as a police officer before going into labor law.
He was confirmed to a 10-year term, but will turn 70 in six years and have to leave office unless voters rewrite the constitution.
Devens declined to comment after the vote.
Previous coverage
Senate committee approves Chief Justice nominee despite disclosure controversy
Chief Justice nominee grilled over ties to powerful political action committee
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