[ U.S. CONGRESS ]
1
Urban Oahu
Neil Abercrombie
Democrat
Age: 64 Job: U.S. House Past: Former state representative, senator, city councilman; teacher; probation officer
What makes you qualified to serve in Congress?
I have always worked to make Hawaii a better place to live. I want to leverage my seniority in Congress to benefit Hawaii in the areas of federal spending, to better the public schools system, and improve health care and provide prescription drug coverage for our seniors.
Do you believe the United States should expand its war on terrorism to Iraq? Why or why not?
Only if the Bush Administration presents specific information to make a clear and convincing case to Congress and the American people. Senior military officers have expressed serious doubts about ... invading Iraq, and I believe their concerns should be heeded.
Do you support passage of the Akaka bill, which gives Hawaiians a process toward federal recognition similar to that granted native Americans? Why or why not?
As the author of the House companion bill, I believe Hawaiians deserve recognition as an indigenous people. The key issue is control of land and financial assets. The bill does not prescribe a status similar to Native American tribes, but gives Hawaiians the power to determine their own status.
Stephen N. Bischoff
RepublicanAge: 55 Job: Small-business man Past: Former city road maintenance superintendent
What makes you qualified to serve in Congress?
Honesty, integrity, ability to work with others. I know the issues. My business acumen knows how to get the job done. I've worked on budgets. I don't like our tax and spend government ...
Do you believe the United States should expand its war on terrorism to Iraq? Why or why not?
It's not the people, but those in power that is causing the problems in Iraq. Saddam promotes terrorism, manufactures weapons of mass destruction, finances and trains terrorists and snubs his nose at the United States and the United Nations inspectors. ...
Do you support passage of the Akaka bill, which gives Hawaiians a process toward federal recognition similar to that granted native Americans? Why or why not?
Education, housing and restitution are some solutions for the Hawaiian peoples. A lack of coordination by Hawaiian leaders is another problem. OHA, Kamehameha Estate and other "trusts," set aside for Hawaiians, are not doing their job. ... The Akaka bill glosses over real Hawaiian problems.
James H. Bracken
LibertarianAge: 48 Job: Retired Past: U.S. Army; mid-level management airline service-related industry
What makes you qualified to serve in Congress?
Fear and passion for my country makes me qualified. Fear because how our government has exploded into an immense accumulation of bureaucracies. I am just a common man that loves my country with a passion that most don't feel. I'm not seeking power or wealth. Two terms is my limit!
Do you believe the United States should expand its war on terrorism to Iraq? Why or why not?
Because of circumstances in the past and if proof exists that Iraq was involved in the 9-11 attacks, I feel that as a nation we don't have much choice ... Liberties and freedoms always have come with a cost.
Do you support passage of the Akaka bill, which gives Hawaiians a process toward federal recognition similar to that granted native Americans? Why or why not?
No I do not support the Akaka Bill. We are Americans. All humans are created equal. Should I have special recognition for being a ridge running, barefoot hillbilly from Appalachia? I think not. Being Hawaiian is a state of mind that all races can be blessed with.
Harry J. Friel
RepublicanAge: 36 Job: Candidate Past: Bachelor's degree, Shippensburg University, Westchester University
What makes you qualified to serve in Congress?
I have served the people of Hawaii at the state Capitol for two state representatives during the last four legislative sessions. Sought Republican nomination for the U.S. Senate twice in 1998 and 2000. Experience in tracking legislative trends, accelerating the will of the people while working with elected officials.
Do you believe the United States should expand its war on terrorism to Iraq? Why or why not?
If the United States has conclusive evidence of terrorism being supported/conducted by Iraq then we can expand.
Do you support passage of the Akaka bill, which gives Hawaiians a process toward federal recognition similar to that granted native Americans? Why or why not?
I do not support the Akaka bill and in 2000 I testified before the U.S. Senate Indian Affairs Committee against its passage. I support nation to nation recognition not included in the Akaka bill.
Mark Terry
RepublicanAge: Not given Job: Auto detailer Past: Chairman, Kuliouou-Kalani Iki board; helped protect Ka Iwi Coast, Hanauma Bay
What makes you qualified to serve in Congress?
I can do better than Neil Abercrombie. I will fight for an exemption to the Jones Act. Neil won't do that. An exemption would lower our shipping costs and would lower the prices of many things we buy. With more money in our pockets, our quality of life will improve.
Do you believe the United States should expand its war on terrorism to Iraq? Why or why not?
If the President finds it is necessary, I would support his decision. Iraq cannot be free to fund and train terrorists making war on us.
Do you support passage of the Akaka bill, which gives Hawaiians a process toward federal recognition similar to that granted native Americans? Why or why not?
No. Many in the Hawaiian community are opposed to the bill. Moreover, I oppose attempts to break us up into different groups, some of which are favored. We cannot have - in this land of equality - some people "more equal than others."
Opassi J. White
RepublicanAge: 64 Job: Bookkeeper, state Department of Public Safety Past: Active in GOP since 1976; volunteer tax aide
What makes you qualified to serve in Congress?
I know how to budget, cut costs, eliminate waste, organize tasks, and get things done. I can work with all people, from the poor to the rich, from laborers to the business executives. I listen. I believe in America.
Do you believe the United States should expand its war on terrorism to Iraq? Why or why not?
The war on terrorism is a fight for our way of life. Terrorists should have no safe haven. The cost of doing nothing, of not standing up for freedom, is very high. This is a war we cannot afford to lose.
Do you support passage of the Akaka bill, which gives Hawaiians a process toward federal recognition similar to that granted native Americans? Why or why not?
I support working toward self-sufficiency. I support everyone's right to work for a better life for themselves and for their family. The Akaka bill may be able to achieve this.
