[ STATE HOUSE ]
51
Lanikai-Waimanalo
J. Ikaika Anderson
Democrat
Age: 24 Job: Vice president, Haliipua Flowers Past: General manager, Whitney Inc.
What qualifies you to be a state representative?
I bring to the table a unique legislative and business experience, and lifelong residency in the 51st House District. I have streamlining experience, as I was forced to close a business. The Legislature needs people who understand business and who have the ability to make Hawaii more business friendly.
What is the most pressing issue facing your district and what would you do about it?
All problems facing our district are traced to Hawaii's declining economy. Through our farmers and diversified agriculture, District 51 can aid Hawaii's economy. Increases in sales of locally produced agricultural products puts money in the hands of Hawaii businesses that in turn redistribute the wealth throughout Hawaii's entire business community.
What is the best way to stimulate the state's economy?
Provide new businesses a flat percentage break off of the taxes they pay for their first two years of incorporation, with the understand that said business must stay in business in Hawaii for at least five years. After two years, new businesses would be full-fledged contributors ...
Joe Gomes
RepublicanAge: 41 Job: Attorney Past: State representative; law degree, Catholic University of America, cum laude
What qualifies you to be a state representative?
Like a lot of people, I care about Hawaii and want to do what I can to help. Among many other rich life experiences as a father, son, and brother, I bring to the table the following: My experience as a successful first-term Republican legislator, my work as a legislative staff attorney and researcher ...
What is the most pressing issue facing your district and what would you do about it?
There are three: Strengthen our economy, vastly improving our schools, and reducing Hawaii's punitive high cost of living. How do we strengthen our economy? See my answer to question 3. ... How do we reduce Hawaii's too high cost of living? For starters, reduce by 50% the tax on gasoline, and eliminate the tax on food, medical services, and rent.
What is the best way to stimulate the state's economy?
Reduce taxes; provide tax holidays; reduce the unfair burden placed on small business by the Hawaii pre-paid health care act; treat small business with the respect it deserves as the economic engine that keep our economy afloat.
Tommy Waters
DemocratAge: 36 Job: Attorney Past: Law degree, William S. Richardson School of Law
What qualifies you to be a state representative?
As a Hawaiian, I understand ohana. As a lawyer, I am an advocate, a good listener and will hear people's concerns and find solutions. I have life experience and common sense. As a representative, I will be committed to making sure every voice is heard - no voice too small.
What is the most pressing issue facing your district and what would you do about it?
Crime permeates throughout our community. However, it is not enough to say that we must stop crime. I would advocate for better public education, more community programs, and job training so that people have options. People should not have to choose crime as way of life.
What is the best way to stimulate the state's economy?
We must build morale. People spend more if they feel good about their jobs and their future. We must aggressively attract new businesses, and new jobs, as well as supporting tourism. We must find the best way to leverage our greatest assets: a beautiful state and our aloha spirit.
