Akaka is facing a stiff primary challenge from his right in Hawaii. His oponent, Ed Case, is positioning himself as a youthful challenger against an old man - that it's time for change. But Case is essentially a DLC democrat, and Akaka is a reliable progressive vote on everything but the environment.

Jonathan Singer has up an interview, and a request for people to donate. I'd suggest taking a look, and if you find Akaka convincing, donating might not be a bad idea. Getting DLC dems elected is better than Republicans, but it isn't as good as having progressives with seniority and rank like Akaka reelected. Let's replace Akaka in six years when he's ready to go and there's a Hawaiian on the progressive side of the party to take his place.