State representative could leave GOP over Trump concerns - Hawaii News Now - KGMB and KHNL

State Rep. Beth Fukumoto announced Wednesday that she wants to leave the Republican Party and become a Democrat, a decision she says will be up to her constituents.

Fukumoto, who serves as the state's House Minority Leader, says she is under constant scrutiny and facing demands for her resignation after publicly raising concerns about President Donald Trump. 

"I've been asked by both my party and my caucus to commit to not criticizing the President for the remainder of his term and to take a more partisan approach to working in the Legislature," said Fukumoto. "That is not a commitment I can make." 

Last month, the 33-year old lawmaker attended and spoke at the Oahu Women's March against President Trump's treatment of women and minorities. At the Hawaii Republican State Convention last May, she was booed by angry Trump supporters. 

Fukumoto represents Mililani, Mililani Mauka, and Waipio Acres. She says her office will be reaching out to constituents by mail, phone, and in-person. She says there is no deadline set for her decision. 

Below is the letter sent by Rep. Fukumoto to her constituents:

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