Former Hawaii Democratic Party Chairman Brian Schatz announced yesterday he is throwing his hat into an already crowded ring—the race for the lieutenant governor's seat.

Schatz, who served four terms as a state representative for the 25th District serving Makiki, McCully and Tantalus, made the announcement at Kakaako Waterfront Park before a group of supporters.

“;I think voters are recognizing that our government has stopped working and the status quo is unacceptable, and that's why I'm running,”; Schatz said.

Schatz announced last month he was stepping down as Democratic Party chairman, but declined then to say if he was seeking the office.

He will join fellow Democratic state Sens. Robert Bunda, Gary Hooser and Norman Sakamoto and state Reps. Jon Riki Karamatsu and Lyla Berg in a run for lieutenant governor.

The 37-year-old, who was just 26 when first elected to the state House, said if elected, he would not be the youngest to serve as lieutenant governor. That distinction lies with former Gov. John Waihee, who was 32 when he became lieutenant governor.

Schatz believes he is a viable candidate because he understands the job, and can serve as a youthful, energetic and adaptable deputy.

“;You want to make sure that you pick someone who can be a valuable member of the team,”; he said. “;We need someone with executive experience.”;

Schatz coordinated the successful Hawaii Obama for President Campaign, during which the party grew from 21,000 members to 49,000.

He also has served as chief executive officer of the nonprofit Helping Hands Hawaii since 2002.