Native Hawaiian supporters hopeful under Obama
Democrats say they have a better shot at gaining federal recognition for Native Hawaiians after president-elect Barack Obama is in office.

Obama was born in Hawaii. He supports a bill to extend the policy of self-determination to the island's indigenous people.

The bill has passed the House but Republicans have blocked it in the Senate. Democrats plan to re-introduce the bill in January.

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Chances of passing Hawaii's Akaka bill are better than ever (The Honolulu Advertiser 12/8)