WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. Daniel K. Inouye, D-Hawai'i, slipped to the 35th-most-powerful lawmaker in the 100-member Senate while U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka., D-Hawai'i, saw his position drop to 39th, according to a new ranking of congressional clout by a nonpartisan group.

Last year, the two senators were tied in the ranking as the 21st-most-powerful in the chamber, according to the analysis by Knowlegis, which was released on Congress.org.

Senators were ranked on four factors: on their committee positions and their ability to move legislation, to acquire special project funding and to influence the congressional agenda.

Inouye was ranked high for his ability to shape and pass legislation and for acquiring federal money for local projects: $414 million last year.

"I am pleased to know that I am one of the higher-ranked members of the U.S. Senate, based on the study released Monday by Knowlegis," Inouye said. "But no matter how I am rated by various groups, I will continue to do my best to serve the unique needs of Hawai'i."

Akaka's highest rankings came for his legislative abilities and his standing as chairman of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee and three subcommittees.

Jesse Broder Van Dyke, spokesman for Akaka, said the rankings are interesting but don't reflects the reality of congressional work.

"You certainly can't quantify influence working relationships and behind-the-scene negotiations," he said. "Senator Akaka is more interested in getting things done than touting his accomplishments."

In the House, U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie, D-Hawai'i, was ranked 213th out of 435 members in overall power while U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono, D-Hawai'i, placed 341st because of her freshman status although she was credited with the ability to move legislation.

Reach Dennis Camire at dcamire@gns.gannett.com.