Voters pick GOP While Hawaii has been long dominated by Democratic Party ideals, more people believe that the Republican Party will bring positive changes to the 50th state.
as party of reform
But more said Democrats
reflect their valuesBy Crystal Kua
ckua@starbulletin.com
That's according to a poll conducted for the Honolulu Star-Bulletin and KITV 4 News.
People were asked which of the major parties reflects their view on most major issues. A total of 42 percent chose Democrats, and 33 percent picked Republicans.
But when asked which part is most likely to bring positive change to Hawaii, 41 percent said Republicans vs. 34 percent for Democrats.
"I think what's positive about this is that it comes down to values ... especially for Hawaii's people. And what the poll reflects to me is that people still feel that Democrats best represent their values," said Lorraine Akiba, Hawaii Democratic Party chairwoman.
Micah Kane, Hawaii Republican Party chairman, said the poll reflects increasing numbers for the party, and it shows that the upcoming elections are not about one political party, but about balance.
"Our effort is one of change and hope and the call for a strong two-party system. And we need to have a strong second party in order to keep the powers in check, and I think (people) see that. It's something you earn," Kane said. "I think people see the hard work that we're trying to do in the community."
The poll was taken among 601 likely voters who were randomly selected and interviewed by telephone Aug. 21-28 by Market Trends Pacific Inc. The margin of error is plus or minus 4 percentage points.
Akiba said that it has always been the Democrats who have been at the forefront of change.
"Any social reform or economic change in the state, it's been the Democrats who have been leading the way. So I believe, again, when people are given the full picture and see the track record of Democrats vs. Republicans that they'll realize who is the party of change," Akiba said.
Kane said Hawaii residents recognize that there is something missing and will look to selecting a new governor to set the tone for the rest of the state. "We have the greatest people in the world right now. We just lack leadership."
