[ STATE HOUSE ]
45
Waianae-Makua
Emily J. Auwae
Republican
Age: 59 Job: State representative Past: Retired, Bank of Hawaii; West Oahu Credit Union
What qualifies you to be a state representative?
Integrity, dedication and the courage to do what is right. A lifelong Waianae resident, I am deeply committed to improving our community. With common sense leadership and financial experience, I am careful with how government spends our hard-earned tax dollars. I work hard, listen to and fairly represent my community.
What is the most pressing issue facing your district and what would you do about it?
Developing and sustaining economic growth. We need to stimulate the economy to provide good jobs and achieve a higher quality of life. If we want better schools, if we want less crime and if we want to fund social programs, then we must first improve the economy.
What is the best way to stimulate the state's economy?
Put more money into our citizens pockets by lowering the tax burden. This can be done by first eliminating the tax on food and medicine. We must reform government to provide the best level of service at a fair cost to taxpayers.
Maile Shimabukuro
DemocratAge: 31 Job: Attorney Past: Legislative analyst, House Majority Leader; Wai`anae Weed & Seed
What qualifies you to be a state representative?
I have a long history of commitment to public service, expertise in the particular problems facing Wai`anae, and strong roots in the community. I am one of Hawaii's few attorneys specializing in public benefits, e.g., Medicaid, welfare, Social Security. I am ready to affect positive change from the policy-making level.
What is the most pressing issue facing your district and what would you do about it?
The high poverty level. I would increase job training opportunities through public/private partnerships with businesses and industries, such as airlines, engineering firms, and shipyards. I would expand educational opportunities through a UH Lab School, charter and immersion schools, and a state building for LCC-Wai`anae.
What is the best way to stimulate the state's economy?
Diversify the economy with the goal of becoming self-sufficient ... offering tax breaks and other incentives to diversified agriculture, eco-tourism, alternative energy, and high-tech industries. Please see my Web site, www.maileshimabukuro.com
Did not respond: Cal Domen, Democrat; Charles Herrmann Jr., Democrat (45th district)
