[ STATE HOUSE ]
21
Kaimuki-Waikiki
Mindy Jaffe
Republican
Age: 52 Job: State representative Past: Jazzercise Inc.; Republicans for Environmental Protection
What qualifies you to be a state representative?
As a small business owner for 25 years, I bring a great deal of life experience to the job and a broad understanding of how the world works. I have lived in my district for 11 years and have participated extensively in community issues, activities, and projects.
What is the most pressing issue facing your district and what would you do about it?
A steady increase in drug crime is devastating our formerly safe and peaceful neighborhoods. I would continue to press for more extensive drug treatment for addicts and far harsher penalties for those charged with manufacturing and selling crystal meth.
What is the best way to stimulate the state's economy?
Cut taxes, especially the 4 percent on food, medical services, and rental housing - that money circulates locally and immediately to bolster sales and create jobs. Cut the size of government - get money out of government and into the private sector, where it is far more productive.
Scott Nishimoto
DemocratAge: 28 Job: Received law degree Past: Former staff assistant, U.S. Sen. Daniel K. Inouye
What qualifies you to be a state representative?
My legal education and commitment to serving the people of Hawaii, my experience as a staff assistant for Senator Inouye in Washington, D.C., interning in Hawaii's House of Representatives and as student body president at the University of Hawaii will help me be an effective advocate for my community.
What is the most pressing issue facing your district and what would you do about it?
Illegal drugs and crime are issues that I would address by providing more prison space locally to minimize early and pre-trial releases. We should also have consistent standards for parole and probation. The disrepair of our schools and the lack of progress in improving public education must also be addressed.
What is the best way to stimulate the state's economy?
Government can improve our economy by improving our education system. Having an educated work force will open doors to new industries and enable businesses to compete in an increasingly global economy. There is no single solution, but it will involve input from Republicans, Democrats, business, labor ...
