Inside Politics: Hirono to battle Lingle for open seat in Senate from Hawaii

HONOLULU — Rep. Mazie K. Hirono won the Democratic primary in Hawaii for an open U.S. Senate seat, setting up a race in November against former Hawaiian Gov. Linda Lingle.

Ms. Hirono bested former U.S. Rep. Ed Case on Saturday night to set up a rematch of sorts against Ms. Lingle.

Ms. Lingle beat Ms. Hirono 10 years ago to become Hawaii’s chief executive, then went on to serve eight years.

Ms. Lingle won her primary easily. Republicans hope she can swing the solidly blue state their way in the party’s quest to pick up four seats and majority power in the Senate.

Ms. Lingle enters the general election as the underdog but has raised more funds than Ms. Hirono.

CAMPAIGN

Biden calls to congratulate Ryan as his rival

Vice President Joseph R. Biden called Rep. Paul Ryan of Wisconsin to congratulate him for being Republican presidential contender Mitt Romney’s running mate.

The Obama campaign said Mr. Biden encouraged Mr. Ryan to enjoy the day with his family. Mr. Biden also said he is looking forward to engaging Mr. Ryan in what he is calling a “clear choice voters face this November.”

Mr. Biden and Mr. Ryan are scheduled to meet in one debate before Election Day.

Mr. Romney announced Mr. Ryan’s selection Saturday morning. Mr. Ryan, 42, is the architect of a long-term budget plan to remake Medicare and cut trillions of dollars in federal spending.

He has served seven terms in Congress.

MICHIGAN

Democratic platform panel endorses same-sex marriage

DETROIT — The national Democratic Party’s platform committee endorsed gay marriage Saturday for the first time and called for the repeal of a federal law that recognizes marriage as between a man and a woman.

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