WHEN Gov. Ben Cayetano shook hands with Mayor Jeremy Harris at the Democratic convention, a major obstacle to Cayetano's re-election bid disappeared, but questions persist about the depth of party unity. Cayetano and Harris
declare a truceDespite the convention rhetoric, the reality of the differences between Cayetano and Harris remain.
The pair have much to disagree about. Cayetano, for instance, opposed the mass transit system heavily lobbied for by Harris early in the decade.
Their enmity became noticeable nearly four years ago when Harris, upon winning a special election for mayor, refused to immediately endorse Cayetano, who had just won the primary election.
Of course, the situation was filled with confused political loyalties. Harris' former patron, Frank Fasi, was running against Cayetano in the general election.
Since then Cayetano and Harris have warily avoided any real alliances.
Two years ago Cayetano moved into the nonpartisan mayor's race to boost the candidacy of former Council Chairman Arnold Morgado. The attempt to defeat Harris failed.
In response, Harris has campaigned on issues of home rule, rather than charge against Cayetano.
The city, however, is a political creation of the state and challengers to the governor's power soon learn that attacking uphill against a state administration and Legislature rarely produces victory.
Harris and the other county mayors, including Cayetano's Republican opponent, Maui Mayor Linda Lingle, have formed a natural alliance to lobby at the Legislature.
Cayetano failed to include the counties in the Economic Revitalization Task Force and the four mayors became more insistent in their demands for equality and fairness.
Harris had to balance his chances of defeating both Cayetano and the GOP gubernatorial nominee against saving his arrows for a future fight.
City Hall insiders say that Harris has yet to spell out what, if anything he expects from his staff.
Indeed a portion of the mayor's support comes from GOP workers in City Hall, although two years ago in Harris' general election victory he was strong in both Democratic and Republican precincts.
The benefits of adopting the policy of nominal Democratic support would have its political advantages for Harris.
First, if Cayetano wins in November, he would be indebted to Harris. He would owe Harris his support in a future race.
Second, reconciling his differences with a one-time enemy, Harris would take on the role of Democratic Party statesman and leader.
FINALLY, because Cayetano would be entering his second and last four years as governor, Harris would be the logical successor and party leader.
And, if Cayetano were to lose this fall, Harris would be there to pick up the sword and continue to fight Democratic battles.
In fact, a Cayetano defeat might increase the influence and support for Harris among party loyalists.
So far, however, Harris appears to be simply allowing individuals from City Hall to work with Cayetano supporters if they wish.
If Harris is to help Cayetano, however, he will have to come out strongly and often for the Democratic ticket.
Richard Borreca reports on Hawaii's politics every Wednesday.
He can be reached by e-mail at rborreca@pixi.com