Former Democratic Party of Hawaii Chairman Walter Heen said Case will have a hard time, though, attracting native Hawaiians and union members, the bulk of whom have associated with the Democratic Party.

The native Hawaiian bloc, Clegg said, could prove a significant factor in an Akaka win.

"He'll get the native Hawaiian vote," Heen said. "Dan is their icon."

"I know he wants to finish his Akaka bill, and out of respect for Danny Akaka and his dream for his people, to correct the wrong, he should be allowed to finish his mission," [Randall] Iwase said of a Native Hawaiian federal recognition bill.