I guess for others who may not have read the originally-linked article, further quotes (emphasis added):

Political analysts say it's an important strategy in politics -- show no weakness.

"This is a very valuable Senate seat. There's a lot of other competitors waiting in the wings who would like to run for the Senate seat and an important thing when you're an incumbent is to discourage potential competitors," said Colin Moore, political analyst.

Think I should make run for this office? I couldn't do much worse. 

In an email to her constituents Tuesday, Hirono confirmed that she is "without question" running for re-election in 2018."

I remember another member of Congress who had pneumonia and was "feeling much better" right up to the day after the deadline to remove her name from the ballot.  She died the next week and forced an interim appointment and a special election.

The Democrats here won't vacate a seat in politics at any level even in the face of impending death.  They are all about maintaining their power at any and all costs.

I remember another member of Congress who had pneumonia and was "feeling much better" right up to the day after the deadline to remove her name from the ballot.  She died the next week and forced an interim appointment and a special election.

The Democrats here won't vacate a seat in politics at any level even in the face of impending death.  They are all about maintaining their power at any and all costs.

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didn't Mark Takai do that too?

I remember another member of Congress who had pneumonia and was "feeling much better" right up to the day after the deadline to remove her name from the ballot.  She died the next week and forced an interim appointment and a special election.

The Democrats here won't vacate a seat in politics at any level even in the face of impending death.  They are all about maintaining their power at any and all costs.

Were Hirono to "vacate" the office after winning the 2018 election, the governor would appoint a successor... which is exactly how Schatz ascended to his throne.

I know someone who's not using his. 

And it should be good for a Liberal -- no risk of rejection.

And who may that be?