Name visibility becomes vital in lower Puna

A retired Marine and a union official face off to fill an open House seat

HILO » With the retirement of legislative veteran Helene Hale, the 4th House District in lower Puna is the only one on the Big Island without an incumbent.

Republican Brian Jordan, a retired Marine master sergeant, ran twice against Hale. Now the seat is open, and Jordan has name recognition.

Facing him is newcomer Democrat Faye Hanohano, a prison lieutenant and state secretary-treasurer of the United Public Workers union.

In the primary election, Hanohano had little visibility while Jordan's signs were everywhere. Hanohano says she is now working to make herself known.

Hanohano has a list of proposals such as satellite state services, health care, and better roads. Her former job as a cultural interpreter for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park will help her preserve the Puna lifestyle, Hanohano says.

Jordan also has a list, most importantly health care and roads, a rail line, an ethanol plant and corporate sponsorship of schools.

Jordan stresses his independence but adds that being a Republican like the governor will help the district. Hanohano says only a Democrat can get results in the Legislature.

Also in the race is Libertarian Aaron Anderson.

In other House races, each with a Democratic incumbent facing a Republican challenger, Jerry Chang (2nd District) faces Sharon Vannatta, Clifton Tsuji (3rd District) faces Fabian Toribio, Robert Herkes (5th District) faces Charles Hosley, and Cindy Evans (7th District) faces William Sanborn. Other House seats were decided in the primary.