The sister of President Barack Obama introduced former U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie last night as the next Hawaii governor before more than 1,200 supporters at his fundraiser.

Maya Soetoro-Ng reminded the crowd about Abercrombie's early support for Obama and praised his passion and speaking ability.

“;I really think we need that kind of passion to run the state,”; she said at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel's Monarch Room.

Abercrombie spokeswoman Laurie Au said Soetoro-Ng, who declined to be interviewed by the news media, was speaking as a family friend.

Former Gov. Ben Cayetano said he supported Abercrombie's run for governor.

Cayetano said as a former congressman, city councilman and state legislator, Abercrombie had the experience to run the state.

“;It's not a place for on-the-job training,”; Cayetano said. “;He's well qualified.”;