U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie said today his resignation from Congress will be effective Feb. 28.

In a statement, Abercrombie said the declaration will �enable state elections officials to plan for a timely and cost-effective special election for the First Congressional District to select a successor who will carry on the work of the people.�
Three weeks ago, Abercrombie announced his intention to resign in order to concentrate fully on his campaign for the governor�s seat.
�The past few weeks have reminded me that my 19 years in Washington, D.C., as a U.S. Representative from Hawaii have allowed me to build strong, lasting, and life-long relationships with many colleagues on both sides of the aisle on Capitol Hill and throughout the federal government,� he said in his statement.
�Most of all, I have been privileged to be a part of an effective Hawaii congressional delegation which has accomplished so much to improve the quality of life for the people of Hawaii and nation. I take all of these experiences and friendships with me into the future, as part of a proven partnership involving the state government, Congress, and now the White House, to change the direction and leadership of our state.�