2 TV debates might be the key to victory
POSTED: Saturday, May 01, 2010
KEY CAMPAIGN DATESDeadline for ballots to be received: 6 p.m. May 22.
Absentee walk-in voting: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 10-20 at the City Clerk's Office, Honolulu Hale, 530 S. King St.
Last day to request absentee mail ballots: May 15
Special needs: Call 453-VOTE (8683)
Debates: 6:30-8 p.m. tomorrow at Blaisdell Center, broadcast live on KGMB, KHNL and KFVE; 7-8 p.m. Friday in KITV's news studio, broadcast live on KITV
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A total of 14 candidates—from seasoned political veterans to first-timers—are on the ballot as voters begin selecting their choice to fill the vacancy in Hawaii's 1st Congressional District.
About 316,000 ballots in the mail-in special election were sent to voters Friday.
Headlining the ballot are the three major candidates: Democrats Ed Case and Colleen Hanabusa and Republican Charles Djou.
“;Two articulate, hard campaigning Democrats are splitting the vote against a personable GOP opponent,”; said Hawaii Pacific University political science professor John Hart. “;One of the more interesting races we've seen here in a while.”;
The rest of the field includes a coterie of political novices—including attorneys, a minister, educators and a tech consultant, among others—all seeking to fill out the term vacated by Neil Abercrombie, who is running for governor.
A permanent successor will be chosen in the November general election.
A recent mainland poll indicated the race was a statistical tie among Djou, Case and Hanabusa, with 7 percent undecided. The candidates could separate themselves in a pair of televised debates scheduled for tomorrow and Friday.
“;(There are) probably more undecided voters than polls indicate,”; Hart said. “;This race is still fluid. Opportunity to be had in the two televised debates.”;
U.S. Representative District 1 Special Vacancy Election ballot facsimile
Profile capsules of the candidates running in the special election for Hawaii’s 1st Congressional District:
C. Kaui Jochanan Amsterdam
Republican
Age: 66
Profession or current employment: Educator, health care professional, president of the Zionland Foundation.
Other pertinent experience: 35 years of humanitarian service, locally (Hawaii), nationally (continent/mainland), and internationally (Europe and Israel/Middle East), educated at eight universities in America, Europe and Israel/Middle East.
What qualifies you for this office?
My over 35 years of humanitarian service, living, and working in Hawaii, the U.S., Europe, Israel and the Middle East, my graduation from UCLA and education at seven other universities in the humanities, arts and health sciences in America and abroad, and my practical experience in, understanding of, and action locally, nationally, and internationally in education, health, business, economy, employment, peace, youth, seniors and family.
What is the most important issue facing voters in the 1st Congressional District and, if elected, what would you do about it?
Presently, the major issue facing voters is the glaring discrimination, prejudice and disservice of Hawaii’s media ... excluding the AP and some others, promoting their “major candidates and issues” and excluding “other serious candidates and issues,” ... preventing the public’s getting a sufficient, balanced view of serious candidates, important knowledge, and urgent issues as my efforts to advance co-existence and peace between Israel and the Middle East and between the U.S. and the Hawaiian Kingdom.
Do you support the health care reform measure passed by Congress? Why or why not?
While supporting the health care reform measure passed by Congress because of the need of health care for a larger portion of our population and also because of my experience, knowledge and understanding with my serving in the health care field, I believe greater attention and action in preventative health care also is needed and is what I shall advance.
What, if any, regulations do you feel may be needed on the U.S. financial/banking industry?
I feel updating regulations, holding financial/banking officials accountable, and regulations enforcement is needed. Additionally, such official’s promotion of regulation violating procedures, which accepted by staff and result in problematic outcomes, I also feel may be what has been happening in our political system.
What do you think is the most significant foreign policy issue facing the U.S. Congress?
The major foreign policy issue facing the U.S. Congress is peace in Israel and the Middle East, emphasized by General David Petraeus. I am the only candidate addressing this issue with a solution. Being a Hawaiian Jew, having resided and educated in Israel/the Middle East, speaking the language and understanding the people and issues, with divine assistance, I am experienced and prepared to utilize diplomacy and advance co-existence between the Nations of Israel and Palestine.
How do you feel the United States should proceed on its involvement in Afghanistan?
The U.S. should proceed by using diplomacy, encouraging self-determination, independence, confidence and morale support amongst the people and leaders of Afghanistan, and provide reasonable and suitable resources, training, funding and leadership, and withdraw from Afghanistan as soon as possible.
Do you believe Congress should reform the practice of earmarking? Why or why not?
I think Congress should utilize established congressional guidelines, insight and wisdom in the use of earmarking for specific government agencies, nonprofit groups or for-profit companies in order to meet Hawaii and other states diverse needs. Oversight of the practice is needed, and I would use all vast, diverse U.S. resources and continue to use insight and wisdom to meet such needs.
What is your stance on the Akaka Bill?
Although Sen. Dan Inouye creatively originated it and Sen. Dan Akaka creatively marketed it, it is another minority program, which is insufficient because, among other things, it eliminates the vital Judicial Branch and jurisdiction of the Hawaiian Kingdom and thereby undermines serious Hawaiian self-determination.
Jim Brewer
Non-partisan
Age: 70
Profession or current employment: Self-directed dedicated political educator and advocate for employee families, for peace, the environment and democracy. Executive producer of a one-hour television program entitled EmployeesTODAY, on OLELO. I also maintain a website http://www.employeestoday.org along with an occasional online magazine called ETMag.
Other pertinent experience: Community member of the Legal Aid Society of Hawaii board. Co-organizer of Hawaii HousingNOW; a Coalition against homelessness and for affordable rents. Member of the various “Housing Summits” on affordable housing and homelessness initiated by state Rep. Virginia Isbell. Active member of Hawaii Committee on Welfare Concerns, VISTA-Volunteer worker with the Single-Parent Advocacy Network at Palama Settlement and Kuhio Park Terrace, Organizer and participant in H-CAP Trainer of Trainers programs conducted among low-income workers. Co-organizer and member of the Steering Committee of the Hawaii Childcare Project.
What qualifies you for this office?
I hope that it is love, wisdom, courage and can-do attitude in addition to the other references here.
What is the most important issue facing voters in the 1st Congressional District and, if elected, what would you do about it?
Waikiki streets possibly underwater in 25 years due to global warming climate change? The looming nightmare that the multitrillion-dollar efforts of the president, the Fed chair and Congress may have only postponed another second Great Depression? ... “Green Democracy Transformation” means a “GREEN NEW DEAL” with millions of green manufacturing enterprises and good jobs racing an unforgiving clock whose hands were virtually stopped by 8 years of denial of global warming causing climate catastrophes.
Do you support the health care reform measure passed by Congress? Why or why not?
Yes. I would have voted for it. It preserves Hawaii’s Pre-paid Health Act of 1974 for employer-mandated employee coverage of those working 20 or more hours per week. It does prevent pre-existing conditions denials to children now and everybody in 2014, protects coverage during job loss, covers an additional 30 million with health insurance and extends public community health clinic coverage to 20 million more citizens. This unfinished health care legislation will eventually have to be further amended by extending Medicare to persons under age 65.
What, if any, regulations do you feel may be needed on the U.S. financial/banking industry?
Laws and adequate funding for law enforcement to make accountable large financial institutions/banks and corporations. Make Wall Street financial institutions/banks small enough to fail and to jail if they so deserve. Take all corporate political influence away. No more elections buying. No more paid corporate lobbyists. No more closed-door meetings. All influencing testimony must come from public testimony from real persons. Corporations should not be treated as persons with the rights of persons.
What do you think is the most significant foreign policy issue facing the U.S. Congress?
Peace with the Islamic countries is a key to world peace. The key to that peace is a final just settlement of the Palestine/Israel conflict. ... The U.S. should withdraw its “unconditional” support for Israel; then recognize Palestine’s sovereignty within United Nation’s 1967 borders.
How do you feel the United States should proceed on its involvement in Afghanistan?
Unlike the Iraq War, this was a legal war. The Taliban government was a state sponsor of 9/11. The Taliban is out of power. There are eight different ethnic groups. Poverty and illiteracy are widespread. ... I would at this time be in favor of withdrawal of U.S. troops and let any further U.S. involvement be in accord with a new U.S. policy of assisting green democracy transformation locally and globally.
Do you believe Congress should reform the practice of earmarking? Why or why not?
Yes, pork-barrel reform is needed to stop the Washington/Wall Street behind closed-door horse-trading in things like the so-called corporate “public works projects;” which have saddled places with things like “bridges to nowhere.” This practice is basically corrupt. We are a country of democracy-made laws not legalized corruption. I believe that Hawaii is capable much better things without cheating.
What is your stance on the Akaka Bill?
I believe deeply that justice requires land and self-determination as indigenous Hawaiians’ basic human rights. I have studied the concepts of truth, reconciliation, reparations, justice and moving on. I have concluded that justice can be achieved with the Akaka Bill. I also am convinced from what I’ve read from and about Queen Liliuokalani that she would see this in a positive light.
Vinny Browne
Democrat
Age: 29
Profession or Current Employment: Minister
Other pertinent experience: None listed.
What qualifies you for this office?
Normally, the more experience you have the better. But with career politicians, is seems the longer they remain in politics the less trustworthy they become. They start serving their own interests, and the interests of the special interest groups that fund their campaign war chests, rather than serving the people who elected them. If you’re not happy with the job the “qualified” politicians in Washington are doing, maybe it’s time you took a fresh approach.
What is the most important issue facing voters in the 1st Congressional District and, if elected, what would you do about it?
I’m concerned with education, the wars in the Middle East, health care, our dependence on oil for electricity and many others. I would work with Congress to find cost effective solutions to these problems. I believe we could stop wasting money overseas that could be better spent on our needs here at home, by ending our involvement in the Middle East. I also think District 1 should be represented by a Democrat who lives in District 1.
Do you support the health care reform measure passed by Congress? Why or why not?
After losing their 60th vote in the Senate, Democratic leaders sold us out by passing a health care bill that does nothing but allow Democrats to claim a fake political victory. Basically, this bill forces Americans to buy health insurance under the threat of a fine, and it forces insurance companies to sell you insurance, regardless of your situation. But it does little to curb costs, which is the real problem. Also, under the plan, 87% of employers are completely exempt from providing insurance to their employees. How is this reform? Real reform would be establishing a real public option.
What, if any, regulations do you feel may be needed on the U.S. financial/banking industry?
Some of the credit card interest rates in this country would make a loan shark cringe. We need to set a reasonable cap on how high interest rates can be. Also, I will not support any bank bail outs. If banks choose to write high risk loans, they must know that they will be responsible for the consequences of their actions. There is no such thing as “to big to fail.”
What do you think is the most significant foreign policy issue facing the U.S. Congress?
I believe the wars in the Middle East are the most important foreign policy issues facing this country. I believe that our involvement in these wars should be ended immediately. I believe that Iraq and Afghanistan will never learn to stand on their own two feet so long as we allow them to lean on us. I believe that the security of our country would be much better served if we had the money and solders that we are sending overseas here at home. Most importantly, I believe that the needless deaths of our solders should end.
How do you feel the U.S. should proceed on its involvement in Afghanistan?
I believe my previous answer makes my opinions on this issue clear.
Do you believe Congress should reform the practice of earmarking? Why or Why not?
The term “earmark” has become a dirty word in politics because earmarks have been abused. However, when used correctly and responsibility, earmarks can be a good thing. When federal funds are earmarked for something worthy, like education, the earmark insures those funds are really used for education, and not spent irresponsibility by the local governments receiving them. What I would do is work with local governments to determine what projects truly need earmark funding, and then fight in Washington to obtain that funding.
What is your stance on the Akaka Bill?
I believe that Hawaii’s native people have every right to expect and receive the same rights and privileges that are afforded to other indigenous people in our country. I will support any, and all, legislation that will grant Hawaii’s native people those rights and privileges.
Ed Case
Democrat
Age: 57
Profession/current employment: Attorney, Bays Deaver Lung Rose & Holma
Other pertinent experience: None listed.
What qualifies you for this office?
First, my seniority, experience, knowledge, relationships and abilities gained through seven years of working in the U.S. Congress, consisting of over four years as U.S. congressman (2002-07) and three years as legislative assistant to U.S. Senator/Congressman Spark Matsunaga (1975-78). Second, my knowledge and appreciation of all of Hawaii gained over my lifetime of living and working throughout Hawaii. Third, my knowledge of our local economy and businesses gained over three decades of service in both our public and private sectors. Fourth, my commitment to change in our country and at home.
What is the most important issue facing voters in the 1st Congressional District and, if elected, what would you do about it?
Revitalizing our local economy and preserving and increasing local jobs has to be our top priority across the board. Everything else depends on that. My focus will include: (1) assuring a national tax and regulatory environment which provides for core services and needs while allowing private enterprise to prosper; (2) focusing federal efforts on assisting key industries like tourism through initiatives such as easing travel restrictions between Hawaii and China; and (3) assuring that Hawaii small businesses get their fair share of federal contracts.
Do you support the heath care reform measure passed by Congress? Why or why not?
Ultimately, yes, because I cannot accept the current status quo under which (1) over 30 million Americans cannot access basic health care, (2) too many Americans are kicked off health insurance rolls because they get or may get sick, and (3) costs continue to increase far in excess of inflation, and because the law as passed does not increase our national debt. I also saw no constructive alternative offered which would actually fix the status quo, and believe that action now, even if later fixes are required (which I believe they are), is far preferable to just saying no to any real fix.
What, if any, regulations do you feel may be needed on the U.S. financial/banking industry?
One must conclude from the financial meltdown of the last few years that (1) our current regulatory system failed and (2) without reform, chances are history will repeat itself. The challenge is to find the right balance between too little reform, which will not prevent a recurrence, and too much reform, which will cripple our crucial banking and finance industry. Such a balance would include at least a streamlining and consolidation of regulatory responsibility, now spread too widely and inefficiently, and reasonable regulation of largely unregulated culprits like derivatives.
What do you think is the most significant foreign policy issue facing the U.S. Congress?
Far and away the most significant foreign policy issue facing all Americans is our relationship with China, which is rapidly coming into true superpower status. We are increasingly tied together both economically and by the very unfortunate reality that, by our mismanagement of our federal budget, we have allowed China to become one of our largest lenders. And, for us in Hawaii, we are tied by reason of being a uniquely Pacific Asian state. As goes our country’s relationship with China, so to a great extent will go the stability of our world.
How do you feel the United States should proceed on its involvement in Afghanistan?
I support the overall strategy and direction taken by President Obama, our military and a majority of our Congress, in conjunction with NATO and other countries. It is crucial to the security of our country and world that Al-Qaeda never again find safe haven in Afghanistan, Pakistan or any other country, and that the Taliban not regain governance of Afghanistan. It is also crucial that we and our allies assist Afghanistan with rebuilding its government, economic and social institutions, with the clear understanding that we will not be a permanent presence.
Do you believe Congress should reform the practice of earmarking? Why or why not?
Yes. First, I believe that it is a legitimate practice for Congress to direct a reasonable amount of total federal funding to specific projects. ... The problems, though, with earmarking are a lack of transparency, a growing total amount of the federal budget earmarked, and, most important, a too-often-corruptive connection between lobbying, earmarks and campaign contributions. I would require total transparency, limit total amounts, and ban contributions by earmark recipients as is now the case for federal contractors.
What is your stance on the Akaka Bill?
I support federal recognition for native Hawaiians, because I believe that (1) native Hawaiians are indigenous peoples just as are other Native Americans and, as such, should have the same basic status as have other Native Americans for well over a century, and (2) federal recognition will ensure the sustainability of our native Hawaiian people and culture and thereby benefit all of us. However, I share the concern that the most recent version of the bill leaves too much uncertainty in the details of federal recognition and risks another generation of litigation.
Charles (Googie) Collins
Republican
Age: Not given.
Profession or current employment: Not given.
Other pertinent experience: None listed.
I am not asking for donations but would respectfully ask for your vote. The truth always comes out in the end. I see normalization of relations with China through trade as the main issue facing the country, and the transition to globalization as the natural, and consequence of necessitated shared resource, course of world events. Thank you for your consideration.
Douglas Crum
Republican
Age: 53
Profession or current employment: IT / Medium Size Law Firms Consultant / Fortune 100
Other pertinent experience: Worked for a U.S. congressman for approximately 18 years on his campaign side and IT support. Served three years on U.S. Postal Council, 10 years on the (President) Board of Directors of NetWare Users International, two years State of Florida Board of Realtors, two years board of directors of Pinellas Realtors Association.
What qualifies you for this office?
I will speak and vote on behalf of Hawaii not my personal agenda. I have ability to research and present issues for approval on the first try. I have the ability to cross party lines for consensus building. My home is Hawaii only my office is in Washington. I’m here for you. I’m not numb to government spending.
What is the most important issue facing voters in the 1st Congressional District and, if elected, what would you do about it?
The most important issue facing the 1st Congressional District is lack of jobs. The stimulus money is a good idea, a good program however it has poor management. We need stronger accountability and measurables of money given for job stimulus, not new bug boxes for an entomology department for $250,000 and no jobs created, or color signs advising of work being done on government buildings costing thousands of dollars.
Do you support the health care reform measure passed by Congress? Why or why not?
No. You can’t pass a bill and then work out every problem that arises from a poorly written bill. For example, the penalty corporations pay for not providing insurance to an employee. Big business will choose to pay the fine because it’s cheaper than paying the insurance. What is the answer to the employee on their tax form? They pay a “tax fine” because no insurance? Finger pointing will not insure employees and will not keep them from a tragic result.
What, if any, regulations do you feel may be needed on the U.S. financial/banking industry?
Accountability, responsibility and decrease the size. Bigger is not better as we now know. In 1802, Thomas Jefferson wrote: “If the American people ever allow private banks to control the issue of their currency, first by inflation, then by deflation, the banks and corporations that will grow up around them will deprive the people of all property until their children wake up homeless on the continent their fathers conquered.”
What do you think is the most significant foreign policy issue facing the U.S. Congress?
Unbalanced trade deficit. The United States has become a consumer nation and trying to borrow out of debt from foreign countries. By 2025 (only 15 years away), our interest will be all that we can pay toward our borrowed debt.
How do you feel the United States should proceed on its involvement in Afghanistan?
Redefine the goals and objectives. Make the goals shorter, measurable and able to pull out saving face. Meet the goals and get out as quickly as we went in. No apologies.
Do you believe Congress should reform the practice of earmarking? Why or why not?
Yes. Congress should reform earmarking ... If we see this practice in other countries we call it unethical and we call it bribery. If it happens in USA, we call it earmarking. It’s unethical even in USA. However, it should also include the president and executive officials when reformed.
What is your stance on the Akaka Bill?
The Akaka Bill has three amendments and makes a difference. It will require a vote of residents in Hawaii. I am in favor of the bill, however, if it goes to a state vote. I suspect it will not pass unless they do a better job educating the public. I suggest forums with civil discussion of pros and cons in multiple locations to be effective.
Rafael (Del) Del Castillo
Democrat
Age: 62
Profession or current employment: Lawyer
Other pertinent experience: Union member 14 years; public school teacher 8 years; economic development planning commissioner 2 years; community services planner/evaluator/surveyor 20 years; health benefits litigation 10 years
What qualifies you for this office?
My extensive experience helping government-funded programs become efficient and accountable for meeting objectives, my extensive experience in key programs, including health care and mental health, education, homelessness, and social services
What is the most important issue facing voters in the 1st Congressional District and, if elected, what would you do about it?
A secure future with career opportunities and stable economic growth.
Do you support the health care reform measure passed by Congress? Why or why not?
Yes, because it confirms that health care is a right. There are a number of provisions that protect and extend health care to the uninsured. There are a number of challenging problems the act does not address adequately, so there is work to do
What, if any, regulations do you feel may be needed on the U.S. financial/banking industry?
Substantial disincentives to achieving a “too big to fail” size, including increasing reserves as the size of an entity increases, and excise taxes for such large institutions. In particular, we must put an end to unregulated financial instruments.
What do you think is the most significant foreign policy issue facing the U.S. Congress?
Foreign wars, in particular in the Middle East. Military solutions to problems in other nations are no longer a viable option. We must aggressively pursue alternatives to military solutions.
How do you feel the United States should proceed on its involvement in Afghanistan?
Peacefully.
Do you believe Congress should reform the practice of earmarking? Why or why not?
Earmarking will not go away, so it must be totally transparent, up to and including extensive pre-disclosure and post-disclosure provisions that track the money during the entire lifetime of the project or appropriation.
What is your stance on the Akaka Bill?
First, it is essential to recognize that the Akaka Bill, as amended, bears a wan resemblance to the Akaka Bill of 1994 inasmuch as the protections and assurances the 1994 bill provided have been watered down materially based upon political wrangling in D.C., instead of being based on issues and concerns of local Hawaiian organizations. I fundamentally object to the unspoken underlying premise of the latest iteration of the bill that there was legitimacy to the invasion and annexation of the lands of indigenous peoples on the U.S. mainland. ... Regrettably, the Akaka Bill in its present formulation perpetuates the denial of how the United States came to possess those lands and the Hawaiian archipelago.
Charles Djou
Republican
Age: 39
Profession or Current Employment: City Council member
Other pertinent experience: None listed.
What qualifies you for this office?
Having been raised here, and raising my own family here, I’m very concerned that it is becoming increasingly difficult to make a living in Hawaii. Through my decade of service in public office, I recognize that what happens in Washington directly affects the lives of families in Hawaii. This year alone, Congress is proposing to increase the national debt by $1.6 trillion – that’s $28,000 for a family of four – in addition to the taxes you already pay. We need someone with a record of opposing higher taxes and wasteful government spending.
What is the most important issue facing voters in the 1st Congressional District and, if elected, what would you do about it?
Job creation. We are spending money we don’t have, on programs that don’t work, and worse yet, we have no plan to pay to pay it back – other than to hand the bill to our children. We must instead grow our economy and reduce spending. I support: (1) expanding free trade; (2) reducing our tax rates; (3) a balanced budget amendment; (4) earmark reform; and (5) eliminating wasteful government spending programs like the failed stimulus package.
Do you support the health care reform measure passed by Congress? Why or why not?
No. Although the president got the diagnosis correct that our nation needs some form of health care reform, Congress wrote a terrible prescription. Rather than spend $1 trillion, financed by $600 billion in new taxes in the middle of an economic recession, we need sensible reforms that will actually control costs. These include: (1) medical malpractice reform; (2) permitting the interstate sale of health insurance; and (3) allowing for an individual deduction in health care insurance costs.
What, if any, regulations do you feel may be needed on the U.S. financial/banking industry?
As a graduate of the Wharton School of Finance, I understand the benefits of a strong American financial industry, but also appreciate the risks in having American taxpayers rescue an industry from its own poor decisions. I support finance and banking reform to prevent another private company from receiving yet another massive government bailout on the premise that it is “too big to fail.” Such bailouts lead to the “moral hazard” of encouraging private companies to gamble with taxpayer money. I support requiring finance companies to pool resources to prevent another financial meltdown, but oppose the use of any taxpayer resources to fund such a pool.
What do you think is the most significant foreign policy issue facing the U.S. Congress?
As the home of our military’s Pacific Command, Hawaii is at the center of our defense and foreign policy discussions. Our nation must confront radical Islamic extremism which destabilizes so much of the world and threatens our nation’s security. Whether in Iran or the Philippines, radical Islamic terror wreaks havoc on local communities and, if left unchecked, threatens Americans.
How do you feel the United States should proceed on its involvement in Afghanistan?
As a member of the U.S. Army Reserve, I have friends serving in Afghanistan in the combat theater. While I do not want a single American solider in harm’s way a day longer than necessary, our nation must stay committed to building a safe and stable democracy and agree with the president that we must prevail in Afghanistan. Instability in Afghanistan directly affects our nation’s security and ignoring that risks another 9-11.
Do you believe Congress should reform the practice of earmarking? Why or why not?
Yes. An earmark is used to direct funds to a specific project or recipient without any public hearing or review. The lack of transparency and accountability has resulted in some circumstances in earmarks being exchanged for votes or as rewards for campaign contributions. Congress needs major earmark reform. In the short-term I support a moratorium on earmarks to change the culture of spending in Washington. I also support comprehensive reforms to end secret Congressional earmarks, and a requirement that any new earmark that increases spending also identify a corresponding reduction in spending.
What is your stance on the Akaka Bill?
I support some form of federal recognition of native Hawaiians similar to what has been accorded Native Americans. The delineation of powers for any new native Hawaiian governing entity should be defined, however, only after negotiation with the Hawaii state government. I also believe there should be public hearings on the Akaka Bill in Hawaii before any enactment.
John (Raghu) Giuffre
Republican
Age: Not given.
Profession or current employment: Congregational development
Other pertinent experience: Realtor for six years, import/export for three years, congregational development programs five years, Author of two books on economic reform.
What qualifies you for this office?
I have step-by-step plans for tackling the most contentious issues of today. These plans will anchor the political dialogue in place of all the posture we see other candidates. ... I’m offering a simple plan for solving this real estate crisis. ... We use real estate to pay down our deficit instead of cutting services or raising taxes. Washington may not use our specific proposal, but it will lead them to look at this new set of prospects for the first time.
What is the most important issue facing the voters of the 1st Congressional District and, if elected, what would you do about it?
The most important issue facing our voters is the economy. Most every other issue will be helped along once we have more money. Increase tourism by just 10 percent to 15 percent and Honolulu will thrive once again. Hawaii’s role as an international hub is a great place to start. We can develop this potential along three fronts: as a luxury design hub, as a cultural hub and as an environmental hub.
Do you support the health care reform measure passed by Congress? Why or why not?
The abuses Republicans warn against are correct, but remain a duplicate of insurance company abuses. ... We suggest a better answer can be found looking at the role of lifestyle. Lifestyle makes up to 50 percent of all medical costs. We found dozens of examples that reduced costs by this same 50 percent while still improving care. This is presented in our 240-page book on health care reform called: “ROOPA: Responsibility for One’s Own Products and Actions.”
What, if any, regulations do you feel maybe needed on the U.S. financial/banking industry?
A better approach is removing guarantees for institutions that fail to qualify by government standards. For example, a bank carrying more than $1 trillion worth of assets would no longer have FDIC coverage. This is better than mandating that banks can’t be larger than a trillion in assets. This would extend to institutions working with derivatives or using off-sheet accounting practices.
What do you think is the most significant foreign policy issue facing the U.S. Congress?
The most significant foreign policy issue right now is the tone and political posture of our foreign involvement. Having lived in India, I know firsthand how much the U.S. action in Pakistan has saved India in costs and heartache. I believe these savings played a deciding role in India’s economic development. This is true of Russia and China as well. ... Critical assessments demonstrating the positive impacts of American action has been overlooked.
How do you feel the United States should proceed on its involvement in Afghanistan?
War demands commitment. If you can not commit completely, then leave. If you are going to be there, then you must commit with the maximum degree of resources. There is no such thing as half way in war. In short, matching the resources requested by the military. The second issue is the lessons learned from Iraqi wherein failure to implement nation building added to the resistance. Let’s not make that same mistake again. Develop more local people and business.
Do you believe Congress should reform the practice of earmarking? Why or why not?
All taxes come from the states and therefore federal taxes seem to be the real earmark. I have no problem returning those taxes to our state, but find tax cuts a more effective system then special project funding. I also find it an incidental expense at just 3 percent of the federal budget. I think we should provide a standard 3 percent against the total taxes collected from their own state. In this way, the amounts are fair and codified.
What is your stance on the Akaka Bill?
The Akaka Bill is geared to prying back the lands and country of the Hawaiian people from the control of the U.S. government. ... We should try another package side by side with the Akaka Bill that showcases all the benefits of having a Hawaiian Kingdom. We call this the Mission of the Hawaii Kingdom. ... In short, the Hawaiian Kingdom would offer more economic returns as a nation in its own right then just some background like any other beach front destination.
Colleen Hanabusa
Democrat
Age: 58
Profession or current employment: Attorney and state senator
Other pertinent experience: Elected to the state Senate in 1998 and beginning with the 2007 session, was elected by my colleagues to be president of the Senate, the first woman to lead either house of the Hawaii State Legislature.
What qualifies you for this office?
Being a lawmaker for the past 12 years has given me the right set of skills to be a member of Congress. Experience has taught me that no legislator — no single person — can solve a problem by working alone. The real work comes in listening to others and crafting workable solutions while standing by your core values. That’s what it takes to serve the people we represent. I’ve got the right skills and experience as a leader and a legislator to bring about real change and reform in Washington and hope for Hawaii’s future generations.
What is the most important issue facing voters in the 1st Congressional District and, if elected, what would you do about it?
The most important issue is jumpstarting the economy and creating jobs. When I am elected to Congress, I will work to continue the federal government’s investment in Hawaii’s infrastructure to produce the kinds of construction jobs that were generated with federal stimulus monies. Federal stimulus funds worked, kept people working and put money in people’s pockets. Another economic engine in Hawaii is tourism. I will work to strike a balance between easing tourist visa requirements to allow greater access of tourists to Hawaii while maintaining security at the United State borders.
Do you support the health care reform measure passed by Congress? Why or why not?
Yes. Health care is a right that should be afforded each citizen and the health care package signed into law takes us one step closer to universal health care.
What, if any, regulations do you feel may be needed on the U.S. financial/banking industry?
I support President Obama’s financial reforms and accountability plan and also support: Requiring banks that received taxpayer support to pay back every cent of our money; prohibiting financial institutions from gambling depositor investments in risky markets. Require they choose between being an investment or deposit bank; demanding tough new limits on the size of financial institutions – no more “too big to fail” - and set up a structure, supported by fees on banks, for the shutdown of failing companies in an orderly fashion, without taxpayer funding; Requiring that if a bank fails, its CEO gets fired - no bailout or bonus.
What do you think is the most significant foreign policy issue facing the U.S. Congress?
The war in Afghanistan.
How do you feel the United States should proceed on its involvement in Afghanistan?
I agree with President Obama’s “surge” to stabilize the region and ensure national security to enable a democratic Afghan government and people to govern their own affairs in peace.
Do you believe Congress should reform the practice of earmarking? Why or why not?
It is essential to continue earmarks especially for smaller states like Hawaii but I do support greater transparency in the earmark process similar to what the state Legislature instituted in the state grants-in-aid process.
What is your stance on the Akaka Bill?
I support the current version of the Akaka Bill.
Philmund (Phil) Lee
Democrat
Age: 56
Profession or current employment:Veteran legislative attorney/staffer, public interest advocate. Former deputy corporation counsel and university professor.
Other pertinent experience: International humanitarian and human rights advocate for the International Red Cross in Geneva, Switzerland, and humanitarian relief for refugees and victims of the Holocaust in Lebanon; Expert on Middle-Eastern and World Affairs; associate editor of the Fil-Am Courier.
What qualifies you for this office?
I have real world experience in the U.S. and international areas. I have 20 years of government/legislative public policy and public interest experience. I stand for meaningful change from the business as usual politics to offer new innovative and inventive ideas. ... I have committed my life to humanitarian and human rights and public service for the public interest. My vote cannot be bought since I am not beholden to any special interest group.
What is the most important issue facing voters in the 1st Congressional District and, if elected, what would you do about it?
In addressing Hawaii’s loss of aloha spirit, raising cost of living, loss of revenues and jobs is so bad we are losing our youth to the mainland. I would introduce legislation to make Hawaii a Free Trade Zone converting Hawaii to a tropical Singapore in paradise to build Hawaii to become the transportation, telecommunications, trade, commerce, high tech services and banking hub of the Pacific. ... In addition, visa waivers for more Asian countries and more streamline U.S. visa issuances and investment to help promote Hawaii as a tourism paradise.
Do you support the health care reform measures passed by Congress? Why or why not?
I support the health care reform act and the reconciliation bill. It does expand health care insurance to more of those who really need health care coverage, but it does not go far enough. More universal health care provision is preferred. I support a single payer system that is fair to all stakeholders and medical service accessible to everyone regardless. Health care and medical decisions should be between the patient and the doctor only. No one should be turned away regardless of one’s ability to pay.
What, if any, regulations do you feel may be needed on the U.S. financial/banking industry?
(President George W.) Bush’s laissez-faire policies have resulted in the terrible erosion of federal regulation and oversight of business and especially our financial markets, banks, mortgage brokerages, stocks and financial companies. Unregulated, business speculators and corporate raiders profited unfairly taking advantage of common middle class stockholders. There needs to be more transparency, oversight and regulations to avoid insider trading, louse lending policies.
What do you think is the most significant foreign policy issue facing the U.S. Congress?
Bush’s ineffective foreign policy cost many lives and much money. We need congressman with real life foreign policy, international and worldly experience. I have a certificate in International studies from the USC Law School Institute of International and Comparative Law. ... I’d develop alliances to help preserve world peace and keep our armed forces safe at home and use foreign economic development to foster friends and gain influence.
How do you feel the United States should proceed on its involvement in Afghanistan?
The U.S. should immediately and unconditionally start to withdraw from the region including Pakistan and Iraq while continuing to train and equip our allies in the area to maintain their sovereignty and protect its people and borders from being infiltrated by outlawed terrorist groups. The U.S. needs to increase international monitoring of nuclear weapons and prevent the proliferation of nuclear arms.
Do you believe Congress should reform the practice of earmarking? Why or why not?
The cost of living in Hawaii and Alaska are much higher than the contiguous 48 states, and Hawaii and Alaska are the front guard to our Asia Pacific defense and vital links for transportation and communications. ... Earmarks to these fronting states are essential to our national security and to Hawaii’s sustainability. Earmarking is an offshoot of the seniority system and is hard to eliminate as the seniority system itself.
What is your stance on the Akaka Bill?
I support the original version of the Akaka Bill to give Hawaiians some degree of self-determination over ceded lands, etc. However, I do not support treating Hawaiians as Native American Indian tribes. Although, it might be easier for those in Washington, D.C., to understand and support the American Indian concept, it is totally unsuitable for Hawaiians as the history of Native Americans is total different from that of the native Hawaiians.
Karl F. Moseley
Age: 60
Profession or current employment: Hieromonk, barrister and naturopath
Other pertinent experience (list briefly): Transsexual 1974
What qualifies you for this office?
I am overqualified for this office as I am the only one who is still, to this day, intimately subject to discrimination as well as being the first transsexual, post-op to go to law school (Georgetown University Law Center, Washington, D.C., and University of San Francisco, Kendrick Hall). ... Despite this I can barely survive and all the discrimination from government and private sectors goes unanswered due to a lack of legal representation while I have always offered my training gratis. Reducing one to invisibility and silence is not acceptance nor equality.
What is the most important issue facing voters in the 1st Congressional District and, if elected, what would you do about it?
The most important issue in America is dishonesty and the breakdown of American politics directly due to both major parties and the corporate military power of decree, proclamation and executive order/privilege. Do you think they are telling you the truth? I would expose as much of the hidden corruption as possible during a short six-month term so that instead of hypocrisy we can see the problems needing attention.
Do you support the health care reform measure passed by Congress? Why or why not?
I do not support health care as passed as it was (1) passed in an unconstitutional manner as was the bailout which ignored the third branch of government entirely) and (2) is not single-payer, thus penalizing those who are working poor and denying natural methods and alternatives—supporting the pharmaceuticals and the AMA agenda rather than people. The benefits are to the corporations for continuing to treat us like lab animals. Nowhere is there a rebuilding of public health clinics for triage and information. We couldn't handle a pandemic if one happened.
What, if any, regulations do you feel may be needed on the U.S. financial/banking industry?
I believe the banking system is in need of strict regulations and when I was a margins clerk (and passed the NASDAQ brokers exam) margin requirements were much higher. Right now the sub-prime derivative swap market is being cobbled together for commodities … most notably oil and it’s spread between crude and at the pump. This is a very difficult area. Without regulation our entire reliance on oil is threatened and not by supply but by wild speculation and no responsible party. Too big to fail? Is the corollary too small to succeed?
What do you think is the most significant foreign policy issue facing the U.S. Congress?
The most important issue facing foreign policy is the move from war to peace. This is primarily necessary in recent war zones but must be expanded to disaster and long-term food production zones. Alexander the Great married the populace to grow peace. I propose using the Peace Corps internationally and the job corps domestically to rebuild. In the war zones the military could protect the indigenous community working with the volunteers and reduce confusion as well as engender a true peacekeeping mission.
How do you feel the United States should proceed on its involvement in Afghanistan?
In Afghanistan we need more interaction and solutions not criticism. Opium has a use just not on the black market. But that goes to the entire snafu of the drug war. Who brought the drugs in? I suggest we have a Boxer Rebellion situation wherein the government is more culpable than the people. The eschewing of scientific research and results has led to hypocrisy and lying from the highest levels to the lowest.
Do you believe Congress should reform the practice of earmarking? Why or why not?
Earmarking should be outlawed and appropriations bills fought out in one long session. Earmarking stinks of corruption. I would have a list of all riders to bills publicly available (on a website?) to highlight this problem.
What is your stance on the Akaka Bill?
Cultural Balkanization is the same as dividing the house so it cannot stand. We must respect each other and preserve humanity rather than mere prestige or self-interest.
Kaleloa Strode
Nonpartisan
Age: 63
Profession or current employment: Teamsters Local 996 movie driver
Other pertinent experience: 25 years as an assistant director in Hollywood
What qualifies you for this office?
I am the working man’s candidate: pro-union, pro-labor — have a master’s degree from the University of Hawaii — was student body president of my high school.
What is the most important issue facing voters in the 1st Congressional District and, if elected, what would you do about it?
The economy is the most important issue. The globalization of international corporations dilute the buying power of U.S. workers and bypass them for cheaper labor. I would end that, cancel NAFTA, and focus on American workers and their problems.
Do you support the health care reform measure passed by Congress? Why or why not?
I support universal health care, but the problem starts with spiraling costs which must be controlled first.
What, if any, regulations do you feel may be needed on the U.S. financial/banking industry?
Banking and Wall Street must be regulated. Bogus financial instruments cannot bypass the safeguards already in place.
What do you think is the most significant foreign policy issue facing the U.S. Congress?
War in the Middle East is the most significant foreign policy issue. The invasion of Iraq was a mistake from the standpoint of our ignorance of the Sunni-Shiite historical conflict and Iraq’s role in the checks and balances against Iranian Shiitism. Now with Iraq turned Shiite, there is no counter pressure and little to nothing we can do against Iran short of war, which would be another mistake for the U.S. would have Shiites on two fronts and Taliban fighting us in the middle. Big mess.
How do you feel the United States should proceed on its involvement in Afghanistan?
We must leave. We’re caught in the middle between two Shiite nations. Iraq, ostensibly on our side, can and will shift to Shiite extremism in a heart beat.
Do you believe Congress should reform the practice of earmarking? Why or why not?
There should be no earmarking. All things must have due process and, like the financial instruments I mentioned above, cannot bypass the built in safe guards. Projects should not be hidden in the fine print of bills.
What is your stance on the Akaka Bill?
The Akaka Bill is between native Hawaiians and the federal government, which is a good thing. The problem I have with it, and most other native Hawaiians have, is that this bill seems to be substituting for a treaty of annexation in an attempt to transfer de jure Hawaiian Kingdom sovereignty to the United States. The Akaka Bill is not a transfer of sovereignty for several reasons: 1) native Hawaiians were not the only members of the Kingdom of Hawaii - there were American and European citizens as well; 2) The damage was done not just to native Hawaiians but to all descendants of the citizens of the kingdom prior to 1893; 3) There is no annexation treaty and never was one - a joint resolution has no jurisdiction in the transfer of sovereignty. As long as the Akaka Bill is not considered a transfer of sovereignty, but only a pipeline between native Hawaiians and the federal government structure, I’m for it.
Steve Tataii
Nonpartisan
Age: 60
Professional or current employment: Independent conflict resolution consultant. Author of three recent books on Iraq Wars related to Kurds and Kurdistan, and need to finish the job of promoting the books.
Other pertinent experience: I have run for state House seats in 1988,1990, 1994, 1996, 1998, while filed one election contest. I have run for Honolulu City Council in 2000. My U.S. Congress candidacy experiences have been in 1992, when I challenged the late Congresswoman Patsy Mink. I challenged her again in the 2002 elections. Challenged U.S. Sen. Akaka in 2006 and U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie in 2008.
What qualifies you for this office?
I have been a problem solver all my adult life, and presented positive and vital proposals on issues facing Honolulu, and Hawaii such as simple solutions to our traffic problems or expanding our agriculture to be near self-sufficient, and many more since my first campaign for office in 1988.
What is the most important issue facing voters in the 1st Congressional District and, if elected, what would you do about it?
To solve one problem at a time, and do it well is how I will approach my priorities. Solving traffic problems in District 1 may not necessarily be the job of a congressional delegate in Washington, D.C., but you can bet on it — that when elected you’ll all kiss the Honolulu traffic problems good-bye. That’s all I will say for now.
Do you support the health care reform measure passed by Congress? Why or why not?
This is a question that a presently serving member of Congress should answer. I would like to study the entire proceeding that went on in my office at Washington, D.C., before making a decision. ... You may find somewhat similar questions with my simple, and short answers given in the three Political Website 2008 Questionnaires by “SHARP,” “National Voter Guide” and Project Vote Smart” found at the bottom of my “Internet Links” page on my website, taiiforcongress.com
What, if any, regulations do you feel may be needed on the U.S. financial/banking industry?
Again, this is a question that a presently serving member of Congress should answer. I would like to study the entire proceeding that went on in my office at Washington, D.C., before making a decision.
What do you think is the most significant foreign policy issue facing the U.S. Congress?
This is a question, which I’m most interested in, and familiar with at least two current wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, but again, this is a generalized question, which requires going over the many current foreign affairs to pick which one is the most significant, and it has to be done after I’m elected into office, and from my Washington, D.C., chamber in the House.
How do you feel the United States should proceed on its involvement in Afghanistan?
To avoid killing civilians by going it the right way. The right way is to include all people of Afghanistan in the process of stabilizing the country. This may even include many Taliban members and leaders, who are not hard liners, and are willing to negotiate for a peaceful solution. Taliban is different than Foreign Arab Fighters known as al-Qaeda, which has been causing the problems in Afghanistan at the expense of Afghan people. We need to focus
