The presidential election has apparently quashed any hopes of passing a Native Hawaiian recognition bill through Congress, according to Sen. Daniel Akaka.

Akaka said that the remaining time for the lame-duck Congress will be monopolized by four appropriations bills and related budget issues.

"I am disappointed but not discouraged, for I am confident we have established a strong foundation to advance this measure in the next Congress," Akaka said. "I believe we have come together as a community and are committed to work together to address longstanding issues of concern to Native Hawaiians and the people of Hawaii."

He said that he plans to reintroduce the measure to the next session of Congress.

The so-called "Akaka" bill would have granted Hawaiians federal recognition, and set up a process for Hawaiians to form their own government with relations with the United States similar to Indian tribes.

Hawaii's congressional delegation held public meetings on the bill across the state. Many of the meetings were emotionally charged with protests and shouting.

Opponents of the bill charged that the bill changes the identity of Native Hawaiians.