[ STATE HOUSE ]

50
Kaneohe-Kailua

Edward P. Clayton Jr.

Age: 45 Job: Administrative secretary, the Queen's Medical Center, Department of Security Services

What qualifies you to be a state representative?

I know that many of the decisions we make in the next few years will shape our Hawaii of tomorrow and I want to be a part of the process that shapes our future. ... I am keenly aware of many of the problems which face our ... community.

What is the most pressing issue facing your district, and what would you do about it?

Kailua's infrastructure is in serious need of repair and maintenance. Road conditions, sewer systems and availability of affordable housing are all pressing concerns. ... I would press for increased funding for capital improvement projects. ...

Do you support or oppose Gov. Linda Lingle's plan to break up the statewide Board of Education? Explain.

I oppose the current administration's plan to break up the statewide Board of Education. I do not subscribe to the belief that our school system is broken. ... There is ... room for improvement.

Cynthia Thielen

Age: 71 Job: Attorney (retired) Past: Environmental and land use attorney; represented environmental groups

What qualifies you to be a state representative?

Strong environmental law background, which enables me to sponsor and advocate for such legislation. Ranking member of Judiciary Committee and lead advocate for Megan's Law ...

What is the most pressing issue facing your district, and what would you do about it?

Economic impact of overcrowded, understaffed schools. Many parents make financial sacrifice to send children to ... private schools. I've worked for lower class sizes, adequate textbooks and have raised 3R's money. ...

Do you support or oppose Gov. Linda Lingle's plan to break up the statewide Board of Education? Explain.

... The Department of Education and single board are large, top-heavy bureaucracies. That system is failing our public school students. We can improve student achievement by decentralizing. ...