Hawaii Rep. Kanani Souza is cautiously optimistic after a chaotic, repeat election process, framing it as a win for democracy even as the race stays close.

• Souza leads her opponent by a slim vote margin in House District 43, with final certification still pending after ballot curing.
• The race went through a recount, a court challenge, and a rerun election, which Souza says was exhausting but necessary to make sure voters' voices were heard.
• She plans to keep pushing a law aimed at limiting dark money in politics, which she says could face pushback next legislative session.
• She also wants to work across party lines on government transparency and is pushing for a long-delayed road project in her district.

Outlook: Final results are expected after the ballot curing deadline passes, with Souza favored to keep her seat if her lead holds.