But local insiders say a primary challenge from state Sen. Kai Kahele is to be taken seriously, in part because he already has high-profile support among towering local officials.

That includes three former governors in the local Democratic establishment: Neil Abercrombie, Ben Cayetano and John Waihee, who don't often appear as a bloc.

"That gives a pretty good indication of how the mainstream Democratic Party here regards her," said Colin Moore, director of the Public Policy Center at the University of Hawaii.

Kahele told CNN on Monday that his campaign had its best day of fundraising when Gabbard and Clinton clashed.
Gabbard has not formally announced a reelection bid for her House seat. Candidates have until June 2, 2020, to file for that November's election.