Brickwood Galuteria

Democrat

Age: 52

Job: Self-employed

Past: Former Democratic Party chairman; background in communications and media

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

Our basic quality-of-life concerns are tied back to the economy. It encompasses all issues. The nation's economy sours, and local results include the demise of Aloha and ATA airlines, Molokai Ranch, NCL in Hawaii, job losses at solid firms like Maui Land & Pine Hawaii, to name a few. Through it all, Hawaii's economy has adapted and transitions diligently from agricultural/tourism/governmental to tourism/technologies/construction. As senator, I would help continue and accelerate the transition and in all areas call for innovative diversification.

  What qualifies you to be a state senator? 

As a former state chairman of the Democratic Party of Hawaii, I have worked with state legislators in the majority caucus to advance current policies. I am a professional communicator and member of the majority party, which combined, greatly increases the possibilities of legislation advancing on behalf of constituents from District 12.

What is one thing you would do in office to improve the local economy?

As I stated above, encourage continued innovative diversification in all sectors: Technologies, energy, medical research, etc. Moreover, provide tax incentives and small business loans to all who qualify, regardless of whether they’re in the aforementioned areas. 

Do you support convening a Constitutional Convention? Please explain.

My initial response is no. Changing a constitution is monumental. The constitution is a foundational document. It is a compass that provides direction for public policy. It is not a statue that changes because of unfavorable public opinion or economic downturn. I see no compelling need to change this document. Obviously, being Hawaiian, an area of concern is the fundamental rights of Hawaiians as drawn into our State Constitution. This must not be touched. 

Do you support Oahu’s planned rail-transit system? Please explain.

Yes. I support responsible rail, with adequate community input. As an on-air radio personality for over 20 years, I’ve watched and reported daily the growing traffic congestion coming in from Oahu’s westside. Although I’ve listened intently, opponents of rail have not offered, in my opinion, any adequate solutions. The problem continues to grow. In addition to the need, our congressional delegation has secured federal funding in support of this project. I support responsible rail. 

What can the Legislature do to improve Hawaii’s public education?

In addition to Act 51, I’d like to see increased investment in early childhood education initiatives, as well as increased nutritional programs for Hawaii’s keiki. All studies show that instilling best practices early and often provides for good work ethics and a lifetime of solid skills.

Gordon Trimble

Republican

Age: 64

Job: Senator and teacher

Past: Administra-tor/economist, Dept. of Busi-ness, Economic Dev. & Tourism

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

The increasing cost of living affects the lives of every resident in my district—from seniors on fixed incomes in Waikiki to the hard- working family in Palama. I propose a multifaceted approach. For one, energy self-sufficiency is essential to lower the cost of our most basic needs. To attain self-sufficiency, we can grow new industries and improve wages and quality of life for all. Further, increasing the standard deduction and personal exemption will keep more money in the pockets of taxpayers.

What qualifies you to be a state senator?

In my life, I have a long record of government and community service. I was an Eagle Scout and a Peace Corps volunteer in the Philippines. I worked for the state of Hawaii for 26 years and teach periodically in China and Hawaii. In the past six years, I have served as senator for Palama, Chinatown, Downtown, Kakaako, Ala Moana and Waikiki and humbly ask to continue to do so. I believe my variety of experiences and personal character makes me the best candidate to represent Senate District 12. 

What is one thing you would do in office to improve the local economy?

Introduce incentives for energy self-sufficiency and industry growth. 

Do you support convening a Constitutional Convention? Please explain.

Yes. The time is now. Too much has changed since 1978. This is the opportunity for the people to have a direct hand in their future. A few changes I would like to see are island-specific school boards, stricter ethics rules for government officials, term limits for legislators and giving the citizens the power to recall of their elected state officials. 

Do you support Oahu’s planned rail-transit system? Please explain.

No. No one in Hawaii leads a linear life — it is unreasonable to expect that people will use a rail system just to go from points A to B. In China, cities do not even consider rail systems until the population reaches 10 million residents. Is that the future we want for Hawaii? Mass transit will not reduce congestion, rather it will allow our population to grow beyond what is sustainable. This is a question that every resident of Honolulu must ask her or himself. 

What can the Legislature do to improve Hawaii’s public education?

The Legislature must recognize that the state needs to utilize natural and human resources more effectively. This means training a workforce prepared for growth in future industries. We need to support STEM initiatives with smaller class sizes and teacher access to training and classroom supplies. Schools must be effectively and efficiently managed. I have spoken with teachers whose primary frustration with Act 51 is the waste resulting from redistribution of funds. Principals were not trained or equipped to use their new resources effectively. In concept, Act 51 had the potential to do a lot, but the intermediary steps were missed.