Hawaii State Senator Gary L. Hooser

I have come to believe that much of the hand-wringing and sometimes hysterical rhetoric about civil unions is a bit of a red herring in that it distracts us from what should be our focus whenever we make laws: access to justice for all.

As Americans we pride ourselves on being a nation of laws. And indeed people flock to our shores because they are attracted to a system of laws structured to ensure that all are treated equally. The question of civil unions should not be confused with the sanctification of marriage that religious institutions provide and which indeed should be their domain. The state’s primary responsibility is to provide the legal structure and ensure that the law is applied equally. Would anyone disagree with the very American idea that if all citizens are to be treated equally, all citizens should have access to the same legal structure and the protections that come with it?

The divisive scare-mongering and bombastic hyperbole that fills the airwaves of talk radio are similar to the noise that surrounds any attempt to have any civil discussion of civil unions. Visceral antipathies tend to obscure what should remain a consistent focus on cherished American values, laws and freedoms. Even conservatives like David Keene, Grover Norquist and Bob Barr have, in a different context, called for the "scare-mongering to stop."

Indeed, the misleading rhetoric on civil unions and the divisiveness it fosters need to stop.

This is a time that calls for greater unity, not less. The challenges we face are real and daunting: the need to give our children a quality education, the need for jobs, the need to protect our environment and reduce our dependency on foreign oil, the need to provide healthcare for all. These very large issues of public policy demand our best energies and our most creative solutions. It is to these areas that we should direct our combined efforts as a community. We can do this. We can rise above our parochial, private interests and work for the greater good without denying our neighbor the enjoyment of a private life complete with all the rights each of us expects as Americans.

We can and must find agreement and it is possible by viewing this important subject through the prism of equal rights. I know we can do this. I know it because we are Americans. Our country was founded on these principles, the most basic among them being personal freedom and equal protection under the law.

Hawaii State Senator Gary L. Hooser
Watch "The Hooser Story" at http://www.garyhooser.com
Written for The Garden Island Newspaper

Health care is a critical issue on our nation’s agenda and Hawai‘i is poised to be a leader in providing sound solutions.

A recent New York Times article touted Hawai‘i’s healthcare system as a “lesson for lawmakers.” Workers in our state, who work more than 20 hours a week, have enjoyed health care benefits since 1974. A rarity in other states in the union, Congress is looking for ways to incorporate similar initiatives in the new national plans.

Compared to many parts of the country, Hawai‘i has a comfortable climate that promotes healthy living. We have the ability to eat nutritious produce that is grown locally and enjoy the health benefits of fresh-caught seafood. For many, the outdoors is our playground.

Our people enjoy the ocean, hiking on mountain trails and increasingly are taking up cycling and walking as our infrastructure for these activities improves and becomes more accessible. For these reasons and others, Hawai‘i’s Medicare costs are far below the national average. Culturally, our guiding principles reiterate shared responsibility. In the spirit of ohana, legislators, providers and citizens know of the need to work together to provide care for all.

Yet today, nearly 125,000 people in our islands are without health insurance. Amid the economic downturn, newly unemployed workers are watching their benefits dissolve. Employers are also struggling to afford the ever-rising cost of insurance while revenue declines. In recent years, an increasing number of part-time (less than 19 hours per week) employees have been utilized by businesses around our state to keep costs down and avoid health care insurance requirements.

With prices of medication rising faster than inflation, the incomes of seniors, the chronically ill, and the working poor, are suffering. Many of Hawai‘i's people face tough choices about their health, and may go without medication in order to pay for other basic needs. Additionally, our small hospitals on Kaua‘i and throughout the neighbor islands, are facing shrinking budgets and increasing deficits.

I have dealt with this first-hand. My wife’s parents who reside with us in Wailua Homesteads are a living testament to the benefit of our country’s existing “public option.” While not without its shortcomings, if not for Medicare there is no doubt that the challenges of growing old would have bankrupted our family years ago. I know the struggles personally of providing our increasingly ageing population with adequate care within the constraints of a working family’s limited budget.

All Americans have a right to expect affordable, quality healthcare. 
I am in support of a single-payer universal coverage system where no one is denied health care due to lack of income. Legislative action must prevent any cuts or changes that reduce the existing benefits of Medicare/Medicaid and must support efforts to increase reimbursements to health care providers. The health care insurance and pharmaceutical industries have profited from the sick and injured long enough. It is time again to put the customer first and ensure that everyone is provided affordable quality care.

Several initiatives intended to reform and improve our health care system are currently being debated at the federal level in Congress. I am hopeful that our federal leaders will pass a law that gradually expands Medicare and/or Medicaid benefits to more Americans. In addition, support for community-based health centers must also be increased. This is possible without taking away existing benefits from those who desire, and can afford a higher level of service.

Local and national leaders must take charge and adapt the healthcare system to the times.

The time for action is now.

Senator Gary L. Hooser
Watch "The Hooser Story" at http://www.garyhooser.com

Past Sierra Club Directors Endorse Hooser
Two former directors of the Hawaii chapter of the Sierra Club, Jeff Mikulina (1998-2008) and David Kimo Frankel (1996-1998) as well as respected environmental professor/attorney Denise Antolini, and numerous other leaders in the environmental community have endorsed Senator Gary Hooser for Lt. Governor in 2010

"As someone who has been active in advocating for Hawai'i's sustainability for over a decade, I'm supporting Gary Hooser for Lt. Governor," said Mikulina. "Gary has earned my support through his honest, thoughtful, and smart approach to leadership and policymaking. He's not afraid to make the tough political decisions that will benefit many--today and tomorrow."

David Kimo Frankel, recounting his years of lobbying for the Sierra Club had shown him that "there are not many people who can successfully navigate the system with integrity, intelligence and a progressive ideology. Gary Hooser is the kind of person we need at the statewide level here in Hawai`i," he said.
Losing 17 Days Of Classroom Instruction Is Unacceptable
"We need to convene a five day special session, utilize special funds for education, cancel the 17 days of furlough and send both parties back to the bargaining table." State Senator Gary Hooser - Honolulu Advertiser http://garyhooser.livejournal.com/34231.html

Who is Gary Hooser?
How did Hooser go from being a Waikiki pedicab driver, to being Majority Leader in the Hawaii Senate? Watch the 6 minute online video, "The Hooser Story". http://www.garyhooser.com

Your Help Is Needed Today
Our State is entering an era where leadership, new ideas and unwavering core values are needed more than ever before. If you value - energy independence, a robust diverse and sustainable economy, social justice, protection of the environment and a strong public education system - we need your help and support - TODAY. To be successful, our campaign must raise a minimum of $400,000. Our immediate goal is to reach 1,000 people each contributing $10, $100, or more by November 9th. Please go to http://www.garyhooser.com to join us and be part of the Hooser 1,000 if you can.

Action on Energy and the Environment
One of the most recent examples of Hooser's leadership is his authorship of the Solar Mandate Bill, requiring all new homes built in Hawai'i after January 1, 2010 to have a solar hot water heater or other highly efficient system installed.

Hooser's 2010 campaign for Lt. Governor is the first ever in Hawai`i to go carbon neutral to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fight global climate change, by purchasing carbon credits from local companies doing reforestation and clean energy development in the islands.

Please join us:
http://www.facebook.com/supportgaryhooser
http://twitter.com/garyhooser/

Friends of Gary Hooser - P.O. Box 4094 - Honolulu Hawaii - 96812
Reach Senator Gary Hooser via senatorhooser@gmail.com or cell 808-652-4279

Our campaign for Lieutenant Governor is right on track. In retrospect, the decision to announce early was a very good one. During the past 8 months we have been able to organize a great team in every county, host a series of successful events on three islands, develop campaign materials, earn valuable early media attention and position ourselves well for the coming homestretch.

Recent polls indicate that the top three declared LG candidates, including myself, are all within 5% of each other. This tight grouping portends a very competitive race during the coming year.

Our core base is solid and expanding every day. Prominent advocates in the energy independence and environmental movement, progressive Democrats, small business owners and leaders from the educational community are stepping forward daily to offer their public endorsement and support of our campaign. Recently a former campaign organizer working with President Obama’s campaign has joined our team as well.

Yes, we are on track, fired up and ready to go 

To stay on track – We need your help and support today. If you believe as I do - in energy independence, in a robust diverse and sustainable economy, in the protection of the environment and in supporting a strong public education system – then we need each other.

Running a successful statewide campaign is expensive. There is a constant need to raise funds and expand the base of people who are involved – We need your help, support and your financial contribution – TODAY.

There are three very important ways you can help
:
#1 Visit http://www.garyhooser.com and make an online donation by credit card. Whether it is $10, $100 or more – your help is much needed and greatly appreciated. Or, if you prefer to make a contribution by mail, please send to “Friends of Gary Hooser, P.O. 4094, Honolulu HI 96812

#2) Send an email of support to your email list of friends and ask them also to support our campaign.

#3) Take a moment when on the website to view the new 6 minute version of “The Hooser Story” online video.

Our campaign is off to a great start, but your help and your extra push is needed today to maintain momentum toward victory in 2010.

If you have questions about the campaign, about issues, about accomplishments or about my qualifications and track record – you can find most of your answers at http://www.garyhooser.com or if you prefer, just call me direct at 808-652-4279. I would love to speak with you.

Sincerely, gh
Gary Hooser
Hawaii State Senator and Majority Leader
2010 Candidate for Lieutenant Governor
Watch “The Hooser Story” at http://www.garyhooser.com
Follow me on Twitter “garyhooser”
On Facebook http://www.facebook.com/supportgaryhooser

David Shapiro’s recent column entitled “Civil unions issue remains political divider” http://bit.ly/ePJTB suggests that Lieutenant Governor Duke Aiona, Councilmember Gary Okino and assorted other right wing conservatives are in the process of fermenting a political holy war of sorts.

The plan it seems is that Aiona, Okino and others will rally and incite their flocks to storm forth from the temple and rain down the wrath of God upon the heads and shoulders of politicians like myself who support equality for all people.

Okino is quoted as saying that he will “bring a righteous point of view” implying that God is somehow on his side, which by definition then would be on the side of those who preach sermons of denigration, demonization and inequality.

The God I know is one who teaches love, tolerance, justice and equality.

The quest for the equal treatment of same sex couples is simply that. Opposite sex couples who choose to live in a committed relationship and are joined in marriage receive a certain bundle of rights granted to them by government. HB444 merely says that same sex couples are entitled to the same bundle of rights, but rather via a civil union agreement and not a marriage.

It is not the purview of government to sanctify relationships. The sanctification of a marriage is something that belongs, in my opinion, within the domain of religious institutions. Government is responsible for the passing, implementation and enforcement of criminal and civil law while religion holds the rights to blessings, sanctification and matters relating to eternal life. Government and its elected leaders, should and must enforce the laws that we pass equally and justly without discrimination.

Every legislator has sworn an oath to support and uphold the Constitution of the State of Hawaii and of the United States of America. Equal protection under the law is a fundamental precept of both our state and our national constitution, a principle I support whole-heartedly.

The passage of HB444 is essential to the fulfillment of our constitutional duty as a legislative body. It is also what I, as an individual, believe is simply the right thing to do.

I love the work that I do as a Hawaii State Senator and hope to do more one day as Lieutenant Governor. People often ask “Why do you run, why do you serve?” The answer is simple, I serve in public office because I want to make Hawaii and our world a better place. The God that I pray and listen to in the quiet of the night, is a God who guides me also on the path to righteous decision making - but mine is a path of tolerance, of justice and of equality.

As a legislator I believe it is my duty to help make real here in Hawaii the hope expressed in the words of Martin Luther King, Jr. "The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice."

Gary L. Hooser
Hawaii State Senator, Majority Leader
2010 Candidate - Lieutenant Governor

* Watch online video The Hooser Story http://www.garyhooser.com
FACEBOOK http://facebook.com/supportgaryhooser
TWITTER garyhooser

The economic winds are blowing hard against the bow of our state and stirring up a fierce and apparently relentless storm. The answer is to paddle together, not simply toss people out of the canoe.

Yes, we have to live within our means and yes, government services must be delivered as efficiently and effectively as possible. However the governor’s proposal for across the board layoffs, if allowed to go forward, would have significant and far-reaching negative impacts greatly exceeding any cost savings that might occur as a result.

We need to balance our state budget with a long term perspective—in a thoughtful and deliberative manner, using all of the tools at our disposal. Early retirement, attrition, deferred payments, special funds and user fees are just a few of the tools at hand. Technology to modernize and streamline the delivery of services must also be utilized. To do the job properly, with the maximum benefits and least amount of cost and disruption takes time. It is the nature of long term planning.

The governor unfortunately believes the task must be accomplished immediately and therein lies the problem. Decisions made in a panic mode are by nature conducted without adequate information and without proper discussion, resulting in a plethora of unintended consequences. The current situation with regards to agricultural inspectors is but one example of this. In the case of the State Foundation of Culture and the Arts, the proposed layoffs effectively cut millions of dollars in federal funds in order to achieve a $500,000 savings to the State budget.

Fear-based decision-making is just plain wrong.

The State Administration must take a deep breath, gather community leaders together from around the islands, then properly plan a strategy that will take our state forward in a measured and thoughtful manner. There must be a broad-based community discussion and a consensus built on what type of government we want and are willing to pay for.

Our community must decide what services we believe are essential and face up to the responsibility of paying for them. Is it acceptable to have our children attend 17 less days of school per year? Is it okay to leave our farmers stranded high and dry through layoffs of critical agricultural inspectors? Can we live without health inspectors checking our water and our food, or do we believe this is important and should be paid for? What about invasive species control? What about parks, airport and highway maintenance? Are libraries really important to us or should we simply shut them down? Would businesses rather pay the cost of higher unemployment rates or would they prefer a broader based tax increase shared by everyone?

The big fallacy about layoffs is that they create savings. In almost all situations they do not create savings, they merely shift and often actually increase costs.
Clearly there is a price to pay, one way or another. And clearly, simply throwing some of our friends and neighbors out of the canoe, is not the answer.

Gary L. Hooser
Hawaii State Senator, Majority Leader

* Official Senate contact: senhooser@capitol.hawaii.gov 808-586-6030
* Watch online video "The Hooser Story" http://www.garyhooser.com
* Hooser Blog and Friends of Gary Hooser http://www.garyhooser.com
FACEBOOK http://facebook.com/supportgaryhooser
TWITTER garyhooser

My response to an email received this morning from a concerned citizen:

Great letter Carol. And you are not a "nobody"...you are everybody and your email, letters and telephone calls are important. You are all the people who elected President Obama...and all the people who are needed to support him and others who want to change our country and our world for the better. Thank you for taking action. Thank you for being involved and staying involved. gh

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
From: Private
Sent: Friday, August 21, 2009 12:57 PM
To: Sen. Gary Hooser
Subject: President Obama's Health Care Plan

Aloha, Gary:

I’m just a ‘nobody’ but below is what I just emailed to President Obama. It’s FYI only.

Aloha President Obama:

I'm 65, a well educated (MBA) single white female, democrat living on Kauai. I know, in my heart of hearts, that you'll not see this message, but I write often just so I can feel inside that, as an American, I really care about our country and I believe in you so much that I literally cry when I hear all the disparaging remarks made about you. It appears to me that those who oppose you the most are the basically uneducated folks...and, of course, those stupid Republicans and I think they are crazy, too.

********************************
Above is first part of letter only...balance of message asks President Obama to educate the uneducated on the health care issue...and addresses other issues.
********************************************
Gary L. Hooser
Hawaii State Senator - Majority Leader
Candidate for Liuetenant Governor
Find out more and watch "The Hooser Story" at http://www.garyhooser.com
garylhooser@hotmail.com is the primary address to use for all purposes (personal, Loomis-ISC, and Campaign) except for official Senate communications.

* Official Senate contact: senhooser@capitol.hawaii.gov 808-586-6030
* Cell phone direct: 808-652-4279
* V.P. Loomis-ISC: Communications/Marketing http://www.loomis-isc.com
* Watch online video "The Hooser Story" http://www.garyhooser.com
* Hooser Blog and Friends of Gary Hooser http://www.garyhooser.com

If you would like to be on the Friends of Gary Hooser Campaign E-Newsletter list - submit your name and contact information at http://www.garyhooser.com

Aloha,

On Public Policy And The Future - By Senator Gary Hooser
*Getting out of the rut - it is past time to refocus: It is far too easy to be consumed and literally dragged down by the negativity of the events currently engulfing our state. The uncertainty and the lack of clarity as to what lies on the horizon makes navigating these troubled waters all the more difficult. It is time to lift our heads, put our shoulders and our brains to the task and move past the siege mentality that currently hobbles both our state government and the private sector.
READ MORE (Hooser Blog http://www.garyhooser.com )

Energy and Environment Leaders Support Hooser

Jeff Mikulina - Statewide advocate on renewable energy and environmental issues
"As someone who has been active in advocating for Hawaii's sustainability for over a decade, I'm supporting Gary Hooser for Lt. Governor. Gary has earned my support through his honest, thoughtful, and smart approach to leadership and policymaking.

Gary makes bold decisions and sticks to his word. He's not afraid to make the tough political decisions that will benefit many--today and tomorrow. Gary is the type of leader that the next generation would choose if they could."

Kimo Frankel - long time advocate on environmental issues
"Kauai Senator Gary Hooser is principled, progressive, and productive---not your typical politician!

I've been burned in the past by many politicians. My years of lobbying for the Sierra Club, suing county officials and even working in government have shown me that there are not many people who can successfully navigate the system with integrity, intelligence and a progressive ideology. Gary Hooser is the kind of person we need at the statewide level here in Hawai`i."

The above statements of support are personal and individual in nature and do not represent the position of any organization whatsoever that the individuals may be affiliated with now or in the past.

*Watch “The Hooser Story” online video at www.garyhooser.com

*Follow us on Twitter (garyhooser) and become a friend on Facebook

FUNDRAISING
*Campaign spending reports are in: With the actual election still over one year away, the Friends of Gary Hooser campaign has raised over $47,000 with more than 330 people making individual donations!

*Our immediate campaign goal is to reach our first $100,000 with 1,000 individual donors contributing $25 to $100 each. You can help by mailing in your contribution today or donating online at http://www.garyhooser.com. Your help and support is much needed and greatly appreciated.

UPCOMING EVENTS
*MAUI: Thursday, August 20, 2009 from 5:30 to 7:30 at the Velma Santos Wailuku Community Center - Ono Grinds, Live Entertainment $25 donation suggested donation - Contact Helen Nielsen oluolu@maui.net

* O'AHU: Tuesday, August 25, 2009 - 5:30 to 7:30 Pau Hana Event at the elegant and historical Pacific Club in downtown Honolulu. $150 suggested donation - Contact marialebron@ymail.com

Would you like to help by hosting a fundraiser or coffee hour? If so please contact Campaign Coordinator Maria Lebron at marialebron@ymail.com As always, your comments, suggestions and ideas are welcome. Please email me anytime at senatorhooser@gmail.com

Note: Contribution checks should be made to Friends of Gary Hooser and mailed to the address below. PayPal and Credit Card contributions are also welcome and can be made at http://www.garyhooser.com. Corporate contributions and funds from foreign nationals will not be accepted.

Gary Hooser
State Senator - Majority Leader
Candidate for Lieutenant Governor

garylhooser@hotmail.com is the primary address to use for all purposes (personal, Loomis-ISC, and Campaign) except for official Senate communications.

* Official Senate contact: senhooser@capitol.hawaii.gov 808-586-6030
* Cell phone direct: 808-652-4279
* V.P. Loomis-ISC: Communications/Marketing http://www.loomis-isc.com
* Watch online video "The Hooser Story" http://www.garyhooser.com
* Hooser Blog and Friends of Gary Hooser http://www.garyhooser.com
This message is a personal, private and unofficial communication.

HONOLULU, HI – State Senate Majority Leader Gary Hooser kicked-off his statewide campaign for 2010 Lieutenant Governor before a packed crowd at a fundraising rally held on Tuesday, June 9th at the DAV Hall - Ke‘ehi Lagoon on O‘ahu. The candidate told friends, family and supporters that he has his eye on one assignment over all others:


“In a state with abundant sunshine, steady trade winds and the potential for wave, ocean and geo-thermal energy, we should clearly be the world’s leader in the development, testing, use, and export of renewable energy technology,” said Hooser. “If elected, this will be the first job I request of the new Governor. I will ask him or her to let me help lead the way in making Hawai‘i energy self-sufficient.”

Hooser also touched upon other issues about which he feels most strongly, stressing his belief in equality for all, his support of universal access to healthcare and education, his belief that drug addiction is primarily a public health issue and the urgent need to build environmental awareness and energy independence.

Acknowledging that his opponents may very well voice similar positions he made the case for his candidacy: “Besides the experience, business, family, living through with the community the impact of two hurricanes on Kauai, council and state legislative experience; the progressive values and policy positions, I am different because I have been tested. I have proven my resolve. I have proven that I am who I say I am and I have proven that I will fight and stand for what is right and just,” he said.

He reminded supporters of the comprehensive list of ways in which he had already acted upon Hawai‘i’s most critical issues, citing his recent efforts in regards to civil unions, his active support of nurses, hotel workers and teachers, and the authoring and successful passing of the nation’s first solar mandate bill.

“I am here tonight to say to you that I believe sincerely, that with new leadership, new energy and a new commitment to the future, we can achieve the Hawai‘i and the future that we all want and deserve. And I am here tonight to ask you to join me in making these dreams a reality,” Hooser said in his remarks.

The first of its kind in Hawai‘i, Senator Gary Hooser’s campaign for 2010 Lieutenant Governor is a carbon neutral campaign. A longtime advocate of sustainability and the environment in the Senate, Hooser has committed to offset all C02 generated by his campaign by purchasing carbon credits from local companies doing reforestation and clean energy development. “These efforts are my way of affirming my long-standing commitment to doing all that I can to protect the environment and foster a greener economy,” Hooser said.

The Friends of Gary Hooser will be hosting several meet and greet/fundraising events on Kaua‘i, Maui and Big Island over the next three months. For more information, please visit www.garyhooser.com.

Madame President, I rise in support of the motion to recall HB444HD1 from the Committee on Judiciary.

Madame President, colleagues I rise today and humbly ask that you join me today in a vote to recall HB444HD1, a Bill that “Extends the same rights, benefits, protections, and responsibilities of spouses in a marriage to partners in a civil union.”

I am asking for your help and support, not as the Majority Leader but as an individual Senator, as the primary sponsor of the Senate version of this Bill – and as someone who believes strongly that it is my duty and obligation, that it is our duty and our obligation – to treat people equally, and to provide and protect the equal rights of all people.

That is I am are here today – to request of each of you …to request your support in pulling HB444HD1 to the floor of this Senate…to allow a full and open debate…and ultimately a full and open vote…on answering this important question: Should we “Extend the same rights, benefits, protections, and responsibilities of spouses in a marriage to partners in a civil union?”

For me the answer is yes without question we should. For you the answer may be different…but at the minimum the question deserves to come to this floor for a public discussion and a public vote. – rather than to sit bottled up in committee hamstrung by a 3/3 tie vote.

This is an important issue about the fundamental rights of people and deserves much more than to simply wither away and die an ignoble and anonymous death…stuck undecided and unresolved in committee because of a tie vote.

This issue and the people that have brought this issue forward, the people who have worked so hard to get it to where it is today deserve to have it discussed and voted on by the full Senate…and I am here today to ask that you join with me and allow this to happen.

HB444HD1 lies is stuck in committee because of a tie vote after traveling for over two years through the process. A similar effort to pass civil unions legislation died in the House two years ago after the House Judiciary failed to take a vote on it.

Advocates were told at the time…be patient, take the next year off --- build a broad-based community coalition – include labor, religious groups and others from around the community in your effort – get this passed in the House and we are pretty confident the votes in the Senate will be there for you.

So guess what…that is what they did.

They were patient; they took a year and gathered a broad-based community coalition together. The chorus of voices in support is diverse and strong. Just a few days ago members of that coalition issued a statement asking this body to recall the Bill from Committee and take a vote in the full Senate.

(READ HIGHLIGHTED NOTES AND NAMES FROM OPEN LETTER)

HB444HD1 passed in the House with a 33 to 17 vote…only one vote shy of a supermajority. Even members of the minority party and previously thought conservative Democrats voted in support.
18 members of the Senate then indicated they were in support…one more than the super majority needed to over-ride a veto and the measure was scheduled for a committee hearing.

Knowing the possibility of a tie vote was strong, members were polled on the possibility of a recall vote and at the end of that day 13 said they would support a pull.

Shortly thereafter, the marathon public hearing was held, the vote was taken…and the results were 3 for and 3 against. The Chair of the Committee voted YES in support of the Bill, and the Vice Chair also voted YES in support of the Bill.

Though a majority of Democrats supported passage – two Democrats joined with the Republican minority member to successfully blocking HB444HD1 in committee.

In the end, HB444HD will live or die not because of what happened in committee but through our action or inaction as a group - which is why this motion is being made here today. Which is why I am asking you to join me in allowing this very important measure be brought to the floor for a full and open discussion on its merits, and for a full vote of the Senate.

Why wouldn’t we be willing to recall this Bill from committee for a full discussion and floor vote?

If there are 18 Senators who support the Bill, if there are 18 Senators who support Extending the same rights, benefits, protections, and responsibilities of spouses in a marriage to partners in a civil union - Why is there hesitation now?

This language by the way is the official description of HB444HD and though the word “marriage” seems to make a whole lot of people nervous…this is not a new description and not new language. It has been there from the very beginning.

The stated concerns appear to revolve around 4 points:

Recalling the Bill from committee sets a bad precedent and somehow violates the internal committee process and structure of the Senate.

HB444HD1 is likely to be vetoed by the Governor and so why should we expose ourselves politically when she will veto and the likelihood of being able to over-ride the veto is slim…and so why even bother with taking this further?

HB444HD1 is likely to be challenged in court and we could wind up like Connecticut with same sex marriage being legalized.

Instead of passing HB444HD1, we should focus on amending the Bill, deleting references to marriage and granting some additional rights but not all the rights.

In the interest of time, I will not go into great detail refuting each and every one of these concerns however I will touch briefly on each.

The ability to recall the Bill from Committee is a constitutional right that is rarely used but is there for exactly these types of situations. It was created for situations in which Bills are kept “bottled up” in committee. Bills have been recalled in for a variety of measures over the years including: (Read list of dates and measures)

A review of the votes and reasons given will show clearly the recalls were made based on the Bill being stuck in committee and members feeling strongly that the full Senate needed to debate and vote on the substance of the issue.

A further review of the history also clearly shows that in each case of a recall, there was no subsequent breakdown of the committee process, there was no rush or flurry of attempts to recall other Bills. A review of the history also shows that many members here today, who I believe are not in the support of today’s recall motion, have in the past voted to recall other measures.

Worrying about whether or not the Governor will veto the measure or not, worrying about whether we have the votes to override or whether the House has the votes to over-ride – and failing to act as a result of that worry – to me is a fruitless and self defeating exercise.

If we truly feel that granting full and equal rights to same sex couples is the right thing to do, then we should simply call this measure to the floor and do it and let the Governor do what she must do. At the end of the day we must each look ourselves in the mirror, and judge ourselves for the actions we take. The decision we make today should be based on what we believe is right and just and not on what we speculate the governor may or may not do.

Recent concerns raised that HB444HD1 is “too close to the Connecticut law” and the courts may as a result legalize same sex marriage are unfounded. Though it may very well be likely that this law would be challenged in court – Hawaii Attorney and Professor of Constitutional law, Jon Van Dyke has stated clearly and in writing that the likelihood of this occurring is remote and in fact has used the word “impossible” In addition, Retired Hawaii Supreme Court Associate Justice Steven Levinson has also written “I concur completely with Professor Van Dyke’s analysis”. I have another letter here from ACLU attorney Lois Perrin that says “there is no legal basis for any argument that HB444 as is currently written, will be used as the basis for a law suit for same-sex marriage under the Hawaii State Constitution”…

(I would like to request also that their entire statements be entered into the record as part of my remarks)

Last but not least…is the objection that we should amend the Bill, somehow remove the word marriage from the language, reduce the amount of rights we are granting and pass back over to the House an amended version that the Governor is not likely to veto. This option, though one that I do not personally support at this time…this option remains a possibility.

I would like to thank the Senator from Ewa Beach and the Senator from Downtown…who have each worked very hard trying to craft such an amendment that might be acceptable to the advocates and to the Senate Majority. I applaud your efforts and encourage you to support today’s vote and then offer your amendments to the full Senate on Friday. Should a majority of members vote in support of those amendments, I will join you in that vote of support for the final amended Bill.

In conclusion…

This is a tough issue.

We have pressure from all sides.

There are plenty of reasons we can come up with to postpone or vote no on this.

The main reason to vote yes, the main reason that I personally have not been able to avoid, is one of principle and of obligation.

The principle of course is that - all people are created equal and that all people deserve to be treated fairly, equally and with respect and dignity.

The principle that knowing that this is the right thing to do, the principle that the people affected by this legislation deserve better and deserve our vote in support.

I am voting in support of this measure today and am asking you to join me, because we owe it to those people. These are our friends, our neighbors, and our family members.

We owe them a full and open discussion of the issue and a full vote on the Floor of this Chamber.

I am here today – request your support in recalling HB444HD1 to the floor of this Senate.

But more than that I am asking that each of you simply vote your conscience.

Vote the issue, vote the principle, vote for what you know and believe to be right in your heart.

Thank you Madame President, colleagues.

******************************************
Hawaii State Senator Gary L. Hooser
808-586-6030 for official business
http://www.garyhooser.com for other than official business

Aloha,

Thank you for taking the time to email me your thoughts and concerns regarding the important issue of civil unions and HB444.

It is unfortunate that in this situation there appears to be a conflict between the fundamental values of civil rights and equal treatment under the law, and the value and principal surrounding the sanctification of relationships between couples.

The Constitution of the United States requires both equal treatment under the law and the separation of Church and State.

I believe that the responsibility of government is to ensure equal treatment of all people and that in fact a civil union is at its core simply a contract between two people that is authorized by the law. I also believe that the sanctification of marriage should be a choice reserved to the Church and that government should not be involved in this area.

Though we may not share the same perspective on this, I am hopeful that you believe as I do that good people, people of high integrity and strong moral character, can look at the same set of facts and circumstances, read the same bible and pray to the same God - and yet can come to different conclusions.

Sincerely,

Gary L. Hooser
State Senator
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To Testify on HB 444 HD1, Civil Unions:

Submit testimony asap by the end of the day Monday Feb. 23 if possible with a cover indicating:
• Your name, with position/title and organization (if applicable)
• The measure number (HB 444 HD1)
• Date and time of the hearing (Feb. 24 at 9 a.m.)
• The committee name: Senate Judiciary and Gov't Operations Committee.

Testimony can be submitted in one of the following ways:
• E-mail: Less than 5 pages in length, e-mail to JGOTestimony@Capitol.hawaii.gov
• Web: Less than 4MB in size at http://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/emailtestimony
• In Person: One copy to Committee Clerk, Room 219, in the State Capitol
• Fax: Less than 5 pages in length, transmit to Senate Sergeant-At-Arms Office at 586-6659 (Oahu) or 1-800-586-6659 (Neighbor Islands) at least 24 hours prior to the hearing.

It is important to put your position on the issue for or against, in the subject line or at the top of the page. Because of the volume of testimony it is important that the position be very clear immediately.

"The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free, and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness." – President Barack Obama, Inaugural Address, Jan. 20, 2009

In 2009 Year Of The Ox, Be Persistent.
Implement Your Plans And Do Not Compromise Your Ideals.
Find Your Expression In A Creative Endeavor.
And Enjoy Stability In Love And Family.

******************

The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.
-Martin Luther King, Jr.

******************

Managers are people who do things right,
Leaders are people who do the right thing.
Warren Bennis, "on becoming a leader" 2003

Senator Gary L. Hooser
Watch "The Hooser Story" at http://www.garyhooser.com

Below is a somewhat provocative review of the recently announced “energy agreement” between the State of Hawaii and HECO from Erik Kvam of Zero Emissions. While many (including myself) have hailed this agreement as “transformational”, Erik’s take on the “agreement” is more skeptical, raises important questions and well worth the read to those who are seriously engaged in the issue.

The below email came in response to my request to Erik for feedback on the agreement in the form of a “brief overview”.

The "brief overview" is somewhat long...but well worth the read if you are serious about future energy policy in the state of Hawaii. gh

From: Erik Kvam [ekvam@zeroemissions.us]
Sent: Friday, October 31, 2008 4:35 PM
To: Sen. Gary Hooser
Subject: RE: Hawaii Renewable Electricity Legislative Proposals
Hi Gary

I would enjoy very much the opportunity to talk over with you the recent HECO/State agreement, after your return

I have studied the agreement in detail. Here’s my “brief” overview:

First, the “agreement” is not a binding legal contract. It is in essence a political accord outlining a large number of policy proposals that the parties to the accord will jointly place before the Public Utilities Commission for approval. With the exception of the proposal for a publicly-funded and publicly-owned high-voltage undersea electric transmission cable connecting Molokai and/or Lanai with Oahu, the accord makes almost no mention of policy proposals requiring legislative action. It appears that the parties went through the entire list of electricity-related policy proposals contained in the Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative, and selected and came to agreement on most of the proposals that could be implemented by regulatory action via the PUC. Given the PUC’s record of consistently approving agreements between the utilities and the Consumer Advocate, it may be predicted that most or all of the policy proposals in the accord will be approved by the PUC in the form submitted by the parties to the accord. Significantly, KIUC is not a party to the accord.

Second, on the generation/supply side of electricity, the accord would perpetuate the utilities’ present control over the size, speed and cost-to-the-public of renewable electricity development in Hawaii. The accord is not “transformative” in this regard.

With respect to large-scale utility-distributed renewable electricity (RE) generation (wind farms, utility-scale PV, concentrating solar power, biomass, i.e, the big kinds of RE generation needed to achieve ambitious renewable energy targets of 40% or 70%), the accord makes no changes at all to the current “competitive bidding” regime that allows the utilities to select (1) small-scale RE that utilities control over large-scale RE that independent competitors control, (2) slow RE development that the utilities control over fast RE development that independents control, and (3) high cost-to-the-public RE that the utilities control over low cost-to-the-public RE that independents control. Under the accord, the utilities promise to “accelerate” contracting for power purchases from many proposed independent RE projects, but the utilities’ promise in the accord is purely political and not legally binding on the utilities. The utilities’ promise does not give independent RE project developers any greater bargaining power vis-à-vis the utilities, and does not oblige the utilities to purchase electricity from independent RE producers as the utilities would be obliged to do under a feed-in tariff. The proposal for a feed-in tariff contained in the accord appears to be limited to RE producers 100 kW or less in size. There is nothing in the accord showing the parties’ intent to implement a German-style feed-in-tariff for large-scale utility-distributed generation.

The proposal to build a high-voltage undersea electric transmission cable connecting Molokai and/or Lanai with Oahu will require special attention by the legislature. Under the accord, the high costs (as much as $1 billion or more) and high-risks (earthquake, engineering failure, environmental) of such a cable would be borne entirely by the public. In deciding whether such a cable makes economic sense, the costs and risks of such a cable should be factored into the delivered cost per kilowatt-hour of electricity generated from wind farms on Molokai or Lanai and delivered to Oahu by the cable, and that delivered cost should be compared to the delivered cost per kilowatt-hour of electricity from wind farms located on Oahu. It does not appear that the parties to the accord have made any such comparison.

With respect to small-scale RE self-generation, the accord has some positive features, but leaves intact the utilities’ control over the size, speed and cost-to-the-public of small-scale RE development in Hawaii. With respect to net metering, the accord proposes reduction of some disincentives such as the aggregate island-wide capacity limit for net metered generation, but leaves intact the limit that allows net metering only for RE systems less than 100 kW in size. The accord goes on to propose elimination of net metering once “advanced meters” are in place so that electricity fed back to the grid by a customer-generator can be valued at a combined feed-in-tariff/time-of-use rate. I would have thought that legislative action would be needed for elimination of net metering, but the parties to the accord may believe that the existing net metering statute gives the PUC authority to “modify” net metering out of existence.

The accord proposes “feed-in tariffs” under which the utility would purchase renewably-generated electricity at rates set by the PUC that would be fixed over a period of years. It appears that these feed-in tariffs would apply only to RE producers that are 100 kW or less in size, and would not apply to large-scale utility-distributed RE generation from wind farms or large-scale solar power systems. For RE producers less than 100 kW that are not eligible for net metering, it appears that the feed-in tariff rate would replace the Schedule Q rate “de-linked” from the price of fossil fuel (but capped by the avoided cost rate) that a producer is currently obliged to negotiate with the utility. For RE producers less than 100 kW that are eligible for net metering, the accord proposes replacing the net metered “retail” rate with a combined feed-in tariff/time-of-use rate when advanced meters are installed.

The accord also proposes a utility-run “PV Host Program” under which the utility would lease rooftops, finance the construction of PV systems on the leased rooftops, and either take delivery of the solar electricity (compensating the rooftop owner with cash) or sell the solar electricity to the rooftop owner at some discounted rate. While such a program might create economic opportunities for PV system contractors, it could also be used by the utility to block independent solar power development and suppress competition. Similar programs by Southern California Edison and Duke Energy in North Carolina have been criticized by independent solar power producers for these reasons. In Hawaii’s recent past, the utilities attempted to suppress competition in the market for combined heat and power (CHP) co-generation by entering into an agreement giving exclusive rights to a single CHP systems integrator. Something similar could easily occur with a HECO-run PV Host Program. I am investigating whether there exist any models for utility-run photovoltaic power programs that offer independent developers fair and equal opportunities to compete, and hope to draft a bill for such a program.

Third, on the demand/energy efficiency side of electricity, my impression is that the accord’s proposals – especially those for “decoupling” utility profits from sales, and for energy efficiency, demand response, smart grid and time-of-use advanced metering – are salutary. These demand-side proposals might be fairly characterized as “transformative” of the demand-side of the utilities’ business model. I think that the “Greening Transportation” portion of the accord also contains some sensible proposals.

Fourth, the accord contains a few proposals that are just plain bad ideas. The worst is the proposal under Energy Cost Adjustment Clause giving the utilities the authority to enter into hedges and futures contracts, subject to PUC supervision. I personally have zero confidence in the utilities’ or the PUC’s ability to accurately assess the risks and costs and avoid getting fleeced on these kinds of transactions. Another bad idea is replacing the complex utility-determined Integrated Resource Planning (IRP) process with an even more complex, even more utility-determined process called Clean Energy Scenario Planning (CESP). Some of the ideas included in the CESP proposal may be worthwhile, but I don’t see any reason why they could not be incorporated within the existing IRP process. Under “Federal Law and Rules,” the parties suggest lobbying the Congress for exemption of Hawaii from PURPA. The reason they want to do that is because there is a good chance that the Competitive Bidding framework (used by the utilities to control the speed, size and cost-to-the-public of large-scale utility-distributed RE generation) would be found illegal under PURPA if subjected to a court challenge.


Aloha,

Erik Kvam
Zero Emissions


Note: I asked Erik for permission to post the above email on this blog and below is his response: gh


Yes, you may forward the review and post it on your blog, identifying me as the author. I would appreciate some kind of disclaimer stating that the opinions expressed are solely my own, and requesting that any fact errors be pointed out to me at ekvam@zeroemissions.us.

Things are happening quickly. The PUC already has opened dockets to investigate feed-in tariffs and decoupling of utility profits from sales…

Look forward to talking with you on your return

Best regards,

Erik Kvam
Zero Emissions


Sign up for the Hooser email newsletter at http://www.garyhooser.com
State Senator Gary L. Hooser

Waking up to the Honolulu Advertiser this morning was a particularly pleasant experience as it included an editorial announcing their endorsement of various neighbor island legislators -including yours truly.

The complete editorial can be found here:
http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/20081015/OPINION01/810150339/1105/opinionfront

"The Advertiser endorses Hooser, who has earned his reputation as an influential and effective legislator, rising to the position of majority leader. Hooser, who has been in his Senate seat since 2002, was in the minority in the Senate in calling for an environmental review of the Superferry, and garnered criticism from those who felt he was caving to the ferry's vocal opponents. The Neighbor Island lawmaker's arguments brought a better balance to the discussion.

Hooser also has been in the forefront of efforts to encourage renewable energy and he introduced the measure mandating solar water heating in new homes. Although the bill would have benefited from more clarity, Hooser must be credited with an effort to lessen our dependence on fossil fuels. If re-elected, he hopes to make renewable energy a major focus next session. Hooser's hard work and service to his district have earned him another term."

Mahalo to the Honolulu Advertiser for the endorsement and for your faith and confidence.

For a review of last nights Con Con debate read the Honolulu Advertiser’s report http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/20081014/NEWS05/810140331/1001/localnewsfront

The more the issue is discussed the more it becomes even more obvious that “we don’t need it and can’t afford it”. The Case/Aiona team spoke of the opportunity to “have a conversation” and “seek solutions” to a vast array of challenges that face our State. The reality as was pointed out by myself and Senate President Colleen Hanabusa is that we can do that same thing via the annual legislative process – and there is no need to spend tens of millions of dollars on holding a Constitutional Convention.

I found it somewhat surreal to be involved in a discussion where the advocates were proposing to spend millions of State tax dollars on a Constitutional Convention while our local, national and international economies are on the verge of collapsing around us.

Twice I asked the advocates “Where was the money going to come from?” The only answer that the Lieutenant Governor offered was that this was “the people’s money”.

Our State is facing a 900 million dollar shortfall in the very near future. The governor has asked all departments to cut millions from their budgets. There is no question that State services will be cut and jobs will be impacted. The cuts to the department of education threaten now to reach directly into the class-room. Proposed cuts to programs for the disabled in some communities will effectively eliminate critical dental care programs. The pending budget cuts, the resulting program reductions and the negative impacts on our community will be significant.

Vote No on Con Con…there is no compelling need for it…and we certainly cannot afford it.

Watch KHON Channel #2 tomorrow, Monday October 13 at 8pm for a "live" debate on the upcoming "Con- Con" vote. The "Con Con-Con" perspective will be presented by Senate President Colleen Hanabusa and myself on one team versus the "Pro Con-Con" team of former Congressman Ed Case and Lieutenant Governor "Duke" Aiona. Should be interesting.

Below is a slightly amended version of an article I wrote for Honolulu Magazine explaining my thoughts on why you should vote NO on November 4 on the proposed Ballot question asking Hawaii voter's if we should hold a Constitutional Convention.

Bottom line is "don't need it, can't afford it".

Constitutions are written as enduring documents reflecting the core values of the society that they are intended to govern. They serve as the stable and secure foundations upon which our laws are built. Given our constitution’s central role in establishing and preserving the functions of our government, changes should be made rarely and with great caution. Amendments that the community sees as truly essential can be proposed relatively easily through an established legislative process.

The question before us, then, is whether Hawaii’s constitution is in need of a major overhaul. Current conditions do not warrant such broad changes; I have yet to hear from anyone who can point to a spectrum of issues that calls for deep and immediate action at the constitutional level. Nor does our constitution deserve the wholesale assault that is sure to come should a constitutional convention be convened.

The conservative voices clamoring loudest for a constitutional convention are those seeking not to expand the rights and protections we hold as fundamental expressions of our values, but rather to diminish them. Under the guise of free enterprise, well-financed special interests will seek to limit or eliminate many of those provisions we view as central to our way of life, including the environmental protections provided by the Commission on Water Resource Management and the Land Use Commission, as well as the Office of Hawaiian Affairs and the PASH rights of native Hawaiian's.

In a time when our state budget encounters increasing economic pressures and our schools and health systems are facing significant cutbacks, it makes no sense to spend tens of millions of dollars on a constitutional convention when there is no pressing need. Those issues most in need of attention in our state — health-care, education, housing, traffic and crime — are more likely to benefit from additional funding than from constitutional amendments.

We don’t need a constitutional convention. We can put the money one would cost to better uses. And we run too great a risk of our state constitution suffering lasting damage at the hands of special interests. We should vote “no” on Con Con.

To read the entire and original Honolulu Magazine article including the "Pro Con-Con" perspective of Lieutenant Governor Aiona go here: http://www.honolulumagazine.com/Honolulu-Magazine/September-2008/Does-Hawaii-Need-a-Con-Con/

Lenny Klompus sure got worked up over my recent Lingle/Aiona Star-Bulletin piece http://starbulletin.com/2008/09/07/editorial/commentary.html

I must have struck a nerve.

Klompus, the Governor’s “senior communications advisor” went on the offense in today’s Star-Bulletin http://starbulletin.com/2008/09/14/editorial/commentary2.html - throwing everything but the kitchen sink at me for having the audacity to criticize his boss. He actually mentioned me by name 13 different times in the diatribe and in the end accused me of having a “petty, partisan, vitriolic perspective”.

Talk about getting your prose tied up in a knot.

Typically he never once questioned the core substance of my previous assertion. Rather he took chapter and verse from the Republican political play book. Ignore the substance and attack and discredit the messenger. Available time and energy does not allow the thorough refutation of his numerous misstatements and innuendo. Suffice it to say that they are abundant and obvious.

The core message contained within my 9/07/08 piece, in case Mr. Klompus or others may have missed it:

Fact 1) Governor Lingle thinks President Bush is the “best President ever”.
Fact 2) Governor Lingle thinks that John McCain will make a good President and will win Hawaii in the upcoming general election
Fact 3) Governor Lingle thinks that Sarah Palin has the experience, values and qualifications to be President.

Therefore the conclusion: Linda Lingle is out of touch with Hawaii residents.

In retrospect - I suppose Mr. Klompus’s only viable strategy was to attack the messenger as the message is irrefutable. Hawaii’s governor is out of touch with Hawaii’s people.

We must not let ourselves be fooled. This election is not about choosing between Obama and McCain, but rather it is about choosing between two competing futures, one represented by Barack Obama and the other by Sandra Palin. It is not back to the future but rather forward to the past.

Yogi Berra, a famous baseball catcher of a time long since past once said, “When you come to a fork in the road - take it”.

America is at such a fork, and yes we must take it. And it is no joke.

While the mere choice of direction does not guarantee a successful journey, the path that is chosen to a large part will determine our children’s future.

To one side is the path of Barack Obama, a path of hope and a vision for a new and more promising future. This is the path of Robert Frost, the path less traveled and a path toward a new America, an America whose time has finally arrived. Down this road are forward looking choices that focus on bringing people together, that focus on people helping each other and choices that treat all people with respect, equality and justice. This is the path of Dr. King, the path of hope and inspiration for our youth and the path that honors, respects and supports the vast hardworking middle class. This the path toward peace and security, a path toward a sustainable future and a path toward justice. In Barack Obama’s future, we are all in this together.

Down the other side is the path of Sarah Palin, a path of that leads to the past. While John McCain is the man out front, the journey in which he attempts to leads us is Sarah Palin’s. While McCain is a war hero and he loves his country, he is also a man grounded in the past who will be controlled by the conservative right he so desperately courts. He is a man that is huggable as a gentle grandfather or a favorite uncle, but the clear and obvious reality is that John McCain’s time has passed. This election is about Sarah Palin and a future grounded in the conservative past that she represents. In Sarah Palin ‘s future it is every man and woman for themselves.

Both Honolulu major daily newspapers, while initially declining to publish the "Lingle/Aiona Out of Touch" piece, did in fact include it in their Sunday edition today.

The Honolulu Star Bulletin printed the complete full 800 word version http://starbulletin.com/2008/09/07/editorial/commentary.html

The Honolulu Advertiser included a 250 word version in their letters section http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080907/OPINION02/809070309/1108

Andy Parx (aka The Rabid Reporter, The Parxist Conspiracy, The Parx News Network) also includes the piece in his daily rant at Got Windmills? http://parxnewsdaily.blogspot.com/

Lingle/Aiona: Out of step and out of touch

While local and national conservatives alike praised Governor Lingle's recent speech before the Republican National Convention, for most in Hawaii it is just further evidence of how out of touch she really is.

It is no wonder that Republicans in Hawaii are fleeing their party in droves. Like GenXer's caught at a Polka fest, they can't get to the door fast enough. Unable to field competent candidates in the upcoming election they have left some 32 seats totally uncontested, and filled others with marginal conservatives totally out of touch with mainstream Hawaii.

Whether delivered by John McCain or Linda Lingle, the Republican message is simply the wrong tune - out of step, out of style and out of touch.

The de facto head of the Hawai‘i Republican party, Governor Linda Lingle, along with her chief wing man Lieutenant Governor Duke Aiona, are both in St. Paul this week, praising the failed administration of President Bush and Senator John 'Four More Years' McCain, and working hard to defeat Hawai‘i-born Senator Barack Obama.

Why on earth would they be doing this?

Party politics aside, there is no question whatsoever that the vast majority of Hawaii residents support Barack Obama to be the next President of the United States. Opposing Senator Obama is akin to cheering for Georgia at the Sugar Bowl and hoping for the defeat of the University of Hawaii Warriors.

Without a doubt, the candidate who will offer Hawai‘i the greatest direct benefits would be Barack Obama. Clearly he would continue to visit his place of birth—our island home—to spend time with family and friends. The attention would serve Hawai‘i well, and our Congressional delegation would surely benefit from having a Democratic President with strong Hawai‘i ties.

Governor Lingle once called President Bush 'the best President ever,' so it is not surprising that she believes John McCain 'is a perfect person to elect president of the United States at this time,' as was reported in the Honolulu media.

Senator McCain has been quoted often in support of the Bush administration’s decisions over the past eight years, and he voted with the President over ninety percent of the time. Except perhaps for Rush Limbaugh, Carl Rove and now apparently Governor Lingle and Lieutenant Governor Aiona, few people will deny that the past eight years of the Bush administration have been an unmitigated disaster.

'Bush lied and people died' is more than a catchy slogan on a t-shirt - it is the truth.
Lingle, Aiona, and the John McCain's of our country may look the other way in denial but the world community, backed by the overwhelming weight of the evidence knows it is the sad and brutal truth.

The election of Senator John McCain will only perpetuate the policies—and errors—of the past. Our country, our world and our community cannot afford four more years of this downward spiral.

McCain and the Republicans do not support Native Hawaiian recognition, and yet our Native Hawaiian Lieutenant Governor and our supposedly pro-recognition Governor still insist on supporting them. And they oppose Barack Obama who has pledged his support for the full recognition of Hawaii's indigenous people.

In light of the Hawaii connection and the obvious strong support for Obama by their state’s voters, the Governor and Lieutenant Governor could easily have refused an active role in the Republican convention and the McCain campaign. The leaders of their party would have understood. No one in either party would expect the Governor or Lieutenant Governor to campaign actively against their state’s 'favorite son.'

The role they have embraced at the convention is not simply an appropriate response to a party obligation; this is political pandering at its worst. Governor Lingle and Lieutenant Governor Aiona will be stumping this week for candidates who not only oppose Barack Obama, but who oppose Native Hawaiian recognition, oppose a woman's right to choose, oppose sex education in our schools, oppose equal rights being granted to all people, oppose environmental regulation, and oppose universal health care.

And why would our Governor and Lieutenant Governor be doing this?

It has to be about the money because it can't be about the votes. Lingle and Aiona are more likely to lose votes in their next elections as voters recall their opposition of Obama and support of Bush/McCain. Their aggressive support for McCain and opposition to Obama isn’t about votes, and it’s not about principle. It is about money.

While losing votes and working to reduce our state’s political capital, Lingle and Aiona will gain national recognition and make points with national Republican funding groups. Both will likely do quite handsomely in the fund-raising department during the coming run-up to 2010, and both are most likely betting the memory of the electorate will be short while the pockets of their mainland contributors will be deep.