Re: "Souki’s popularity may have been affected when he pushed his members unsuccessfully to approve a medical-aid-in dying bill earlier this session." Souki's power began to crumble during the McKelvey fuss. After that, Souki said and did nothing to see the bill moved through the House Health Committee where it was deferred. Saiki covered for Belatti as did Luke. Their close relationship with Belatti is well known. IMHO, the large conservative Christian coalition led by the Catholic Church scared the hell out of them all even though the legislature was not hurt at all during the 2012 election immediately following the historic Marriage Equality passage. As I understand it, Belatti is a Catholic. Then there's Marcus Oshiro conservative Christian conversion some years ago. He's rabidly against Death With Dignity despite his careful public positioning during the House Health Committee hearing. He should take up acting. Then there's the Trial Lawyer connection which is worth investigating.