GaryHooser's Blog

According to official records, the newly appointed (April 13) HD28 State House Representative, within his first 50 days in office, paid for with taxpayer funds, the printing and postage for 5 different “constituent mailers”.

These mailers were delivered in April, May, and June to the homes and P.O. Boxes of voters in District 28, and were paid for via his House legislative allowance (totaling approximately $13,000).

Apparently this is legal.

In the “grey area” perhaps, but legal nonetheless.

Those in House Leadership responsible for enforcing the “rules of the House” governing use of these funds, have also contributed $2,000 to this incumbent Representatives campaign (utilizing the “two tickets to a fundraiser” loophole).

The incumbent Representative for HD28 also has the support of the PRP SuperPac, “For a Better Tomorrow” resulting in additional campaign mailers being sent out to voters in the district, at no cost to the candidate.

In round numbers, this means the brand new incumbent starts out his campaign with at least $20,000 more than any other candidate – before he even starts his regular fundraising and mailings. None of this $20,000 is required to be reported on the regular campaign spending reports, and apparently it’s all legal.

To be clear the “Official Mailers” did not mention the campaign, nor solicit votes, or feature any overt campaign messages – but without question they bolstered the Representatives name recognition and thus provide significant campaign support, especially when mailed to voters 30 to 45 days before the actual ballots are received.

And 5 “official mailers” in such a short period, is excessive.

See all the “legislative allowance” reports for all Representatives here.

Candidate Nadia Alves has been endorsed by Our Hawaiʻi and pledged to reject corporate cash and stand with working families instead.

Nadia is awesome and it is no secret she has my enthusiastic support.

Nadia Alves is running for the State House of Representatives HD 28 Sand Island · Iwilei · Chinatown – I know 100% in my heart that when Nadia wins, all Hawaiʻi will win.

She is running a strong campaign against 4 other candidates including the newly appointed incumbent Rep. “Cov” Ratcliffe appointed to fill the vacant House seat on April 13 AND who starts his campaign with a $25,000 insider edge.

I’m writing today to ask you to join me in helping to level the playing field by supporting candidate Nadia Alves with an online donation TODAY of $25, $50, or $100.

800 people donating $25, or 400 giving $50, or 200 digging deep and sending her $100 – will do it. Online via ActBlue is preferred but checks are also welcome.

And yes, Claudette and I will be sending our $100 contribution – TODAY.

Mahalo to all who already stepped up and made a contribution – but gotta ask you again to help Nadia today (before July 24th), and help level the playing field so she also can send out another mailer or two before the polls close on August 8.

Let’s show the world how small dollars can join together to fight back against the big money and those candidates who choose to embrace it.

Check out her website – I have no doubt whatsoever that regardless of the island you call home, or wherever you live in the world – you will benefit from the election of Nadia Alves.

Gary Hooser
*Note: Nadia has not requested nor authorized, nor been made aware in advance that I am posting this public ask for support. I do it because I believe in her, AND know that when she wins, we all win.

In response to the many who are asking…I’ve decided to stay out of the OHA discussion.

I was originally going to consult with my Hawaiian friends and allies across the islands, people whose judgement I trust, and then make voting recommendations.

But on third thought…have decided not to interject my opinion, no matter how well informed I might think it to be.

It just doesn’t feel right.

And I learned a long time ago, to listen to my naʻau.

I’ll keep looking into it…and exploring my own personal choices…and may even leave some blank…but I’ll not be making any public recommendations.

Good luck!

Gary

Most of us are disgusted and have lost all trust in our government.

I for one am sick and tired of reading yet another story about still yet another corrupt Hawaiʻi politician caught taking bribes and or giving their friends lucrative non-bid government contracts that we’re paying for.

The days of sweet-heart deals made in Vegas hotel rooms must end.

Dancing to the tune of big money SuperPacs must end.

The power plays, bullying, and backroom deals, must end.

On August 8th we can do something about it, but we gotta show up.

Today, I focus on the State House of Representatives but the principle applies to the Senate, the County Councils, AND the Congress.

We have 13 emerging leaders (see list at bottom), excellent candidates, running for election to the Hawaiʻi State House of Representatives. Each has a proven track record in the community. They share our values, AND our commitment to pulling back the curtain, shining a light, and making positive change happen.

These 13 can win, AND create that tidal wave of positive change we so desperately need, but we must step up and help them.

Here’s how the numbers work.

There are 51 members in the House.

With 17 votes the Hawaiʻi Constitution allows House members to “pull bills to the floor” which eliminates the corrupting power now held by committee Chair’s to unilaterally control legislative outcomes.

Electing a majority of the 13 newcomers plus the 7 or more “good guys” already there and “Boom Shakalaka”!

For those not good at math, that’s 20, which is excruciating close to the truly magic number of 26, and 3 more than the critical 17 specified by the constitution.

In the big square building they call it leverage.

With 17 votes, a group of House members united in purpose, can move bills, force transparency, AND root out the bad actors.

With 26 votes or a simple majority of House membership, a similar group could reorganize the House from top to bottom and use their combined leverage to ensure the Senate, and the Governor remain on the straight and narrow – putting people and the planet first.

After all, nothing can get done without all 3 – House, Senate, and Governor being in a agreement.

AND in case you were wondering, the 17 members needed to “pull bills from the floor” and/or 26 needed to “re-organize”, do not all need to be from the same political party.

Though the custom and practice is to “organize” within a single Party, it is entirely possible for 19 Democrats to join with 6 Republicans and 1 Green Party member to achieve the magic number of 26.

AND it’s important to remember that 17 is really the tipping point.

If the goal is to eliminate the “killing of bills behind closed doors” and force the House to conduct its legislative committee business in the sunshine (as is required by the State Constitution) – then 17 individuals of character and integrity are all that are needed.

If the primary goal is honesty, transparency, and sunshine, then Party affiliation does not matter.

What matters is having 17 Representatives, united in purpose. 17 people who might disagree on other matters of policy, but who share a common goal of restoring faith and confidence in our local government, AND willing to ruffle a few feathers to make it happen.

Please think about this when casting your vote in the coming days.

Whether it’s for County Council, State House or Senate, Congress, or the Lieutenant Governor – please vote for candidates willing to ACTIVELY reject the bribery, secrecy, backroom deals, pay-to-play, and political corruption, that currently dominates and debilitates our democracy.

13 excellent candidates running for State House

District #2 Holt, Cristina (Tina)
Hilo

District #3 Keawekane, Kuulei (Kiana)
Portion of Hilo · Keaukaha · Orchidlands Estate · Ainaloa · Hawaiian Acres · Fern Acres · Portions of Kurtistown Keaʻau

District #10 Kaho’ohanohano, Ki’i
Portion of Waiehu · Paukūkalo · Wailuku · Wailuku Heights · Waikapū · Hayashi Village

District #12 Kuoha, Keoni
Makawao, Hāliʻimaile, Pukalani, Kula, Pūlehu, ʻUlupalakua, Kanaio, Kahikinui

District #14 Kiakona, Pa’ele
Lāhainā · Kahakuloa · Waiheʻe · Maʻalaea · Olowalu · Lahainaluna · Kaʻanapali · Mahinahina · Kahana · Honokahua

District #19 Pacarro, Kahi
Waiʻalae-Kāhala · ʻĀina Haina · Niu Valley · Kuliʻouʻou

District #21 Morrow, Jake Takaya
Pālolo Valley — St. Louis Heights — Kaimukī — Maunalani Heights — Wilhelmina Rise —

District #26 Fujinaka, Janel S.
Makiki, Tantalus, Punchbowl, and Papakōlea

District #28 Alves, Nadia
Sand Island · Iwilei · Chinatown
I know from first hand experience that Nadia Alves is awesome.

District #30 Kealoha, Kekoa O Pololu
Kalihi, Kalihi Kai, Keʻehi Lagoon, Hickam Village

District #39 Rosenlee, Corey
Royal Kunia, Village Park, Honouliuli, Ho‘opili, and Portion of Waipahu

District #42 Paris, Anthony Makana
Portions of Varona Village, ‘Ewa, and Kapolei, Fernandez Village

District #45 Kaopua, Kalehua
Waiʻanae, Mākaha

Gary Hooser
Former State Senator
http://www.garyhooser.blog

Your primary election ballot has most likely already been delivered to your home or P.O. Box..

Only 24% of eligible voters, actually voted in the 2024 Hawaiʻi primary election – the lowest turnout in the state’s 65-year existence. (Office of Elections, U.S. Census, Civil Beat)

Can’t make this stuff up.

76% of our friends and neighbors chose not to show up in 2024. 568,273 of them actually received ballots in the mail, and still didn’t vote.

This is why we’re losing.


We can and must, do better.

This is how we win:

We show up. We keep supporting our candidates. We continue to give them our modest campaign contributions. We send in our ballots, AND then we encourage, cajole, remind, and convince our friends, neighbors, and family to do the same.

We remind them early in the voting process (as in now), and keep reminding them until the polls close on August 8.

There’s no shortage of excellent candidates on every island, including these 11 running in the Democratic Primary for the State House.

District #2 Holt, Cristina (Tina)
Hilo

District #3 Keawekane, Kuulei (Kiana)
Portion of Hilo · Keaukaha · Orchidlands Estate · Ainaloa · Hawaiian Acres · Fern Acres · Portions of Kurtistown Keaʻau

District #10 Kaho’ohanohano, Ki’i
Portion of Waiehu · Paukūkalo · Wailuku · Wailuku Heights · Waikapū · Hayashi Village

District #12 Kuoha, Keoni
Makawao · Hāliʻimaile · Pukalani · Kula · Pūlehu · ʻUlupalakua · Kanaio · Kahikinui

District #19 Pacarro, Kahi
Waiʻalae-Kāhala · ʻĀina Haina · Niu Valley · Kuliʻouʻou

District #21 Morrow, Jake Takaya
Pālolo Valley — St. Louis Heights — Kaimukī — Maunalani Heights — Wilhelmina Rise —

District #26 Fujinaka, Janel S.
Makiki, Tantalus, Punchbowl, and Papakōlea

District #28 Alves, Nadia
Sand Island · Iwilei · Chinatown
I know from first hand experience that Nadia Alves is awesome.

District #30 Kealoha, Kekoa O Pololu
Kalihi · Kalihi Kai · Keʻehi Lagoon · Hickam Village

District #39 Rosenlee, Corey
Royal Kunia, Village Park, Honouliuli, Ho‘opili, and Portion of Waipahu

District #45 Kaopua, Kalehua
Waiʻanae · Mākaha

I’ve done further research and posted “Island by island, State and County, Candidate Recommendations for the 2026 Hawaiʻi Primary Election”.

For even more evidence as to which candidates are unequivocal in their support of people and the planet – ahead of big money and corporate profits, check out Our Hawai’i, HULIPAC (Hawai‘i County), the Moho ʻĀina slate and the Sierra Club of Hawaiʻi.

None of the above listed candidates are on the support list of big money, big development, and big construction – I’ve posted that list here “Buying influence by any other name is still buying influence”.

Please. Do your research, look at these lists, visit the candidate websites, attend the forums, and talk to the candidates yourself.

We can have the revolution, and we can elect candidates of character and integrity who believe as we do that people and the planet must come first – ahead of big money, big business, and big ego.

But to win, we gotta show up and vote, AND we must make that extra effort to encourage friends, family, and neighbors to do the same AND we gotta keep helping our favorite candidates AND keep pushing hard all the way through until the end of the day on August 8.

It’s really up to you now.

The candidates are there, good solid people who will serve us well.

But they need your vote and your ongoing help to close the deal.

Let’s do this.

Gary Hooser
Former State Senator and many other things

P.S. I’m asking again for your help in supporting candidate Nadia Alves with an online donation of $25, $50, or $100.

Nadia Alves is running for the State House of Representatives HD 28 Sand Island · Iwilei · Chinatown – but I know 100% in my heart that when Nadia wins, all Hawaiʻi will win.

She is running a strong campaign against 4 other candidates including the newly appointed incumbent Rep. “Cov” Ratcliffe appointed to fill the vacant House seat on April 13.

According to official records, the newly appointed Representative, within his first 45 days in office, sent out 5 “official mailers” to voters in District 28 paid for via his House legislative allowance (totaling $13,000). AND he has the support of the PRP SuperPac that has sent out several additional mailers and invested thousands of dollars in his campaign.

Candidate Nadia Alves has signed the Our Hawaii Pledge to reject corporate cash and stand with working families instead.

Mahalo to all who already stepped up and contributed to her campaign – but gotta ask you again to help Nadia today (before July 24th) raise the funds needed ($2,500) for one final mailer, to fight back against the big money and those candidates who choose to embrace it.

As I’ve stated earlier Nadia Alves is awesome and regardless of the island you call home, or wherever you live in the world – you will benefit from the election of Nadia Alves.

And yes, I’m also digging deep and giving what I can.

Gary
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NOTE:Important voting information from the Office of Elections is here

Based on my experience serving as a Hawaiʻi State Senator (2002-2010) and as the Senate Majority Leader – the benefit of keeping an entrenched incumbent legislator in office to ensure they continue “bringing in money to the district” is hugely overstated.

Invariably the standard campaign line will be, “Because I have X years seniority and sit on committee XYZ, the district benefits from receiving generous funding for its roads, schools etc. If the new guy is elected, the district will have its funding reduced”.

Mostly this is a B.S. argument, and represents either a gross exaggeration or a gross abuse of power.

Either way, it’s gross.

Equity and need are the core principles that must drive all funding decisions, and the budget approval process is intentionally structured to achieve this.

There are 3 entities – Governor, House, and Senate who must all agree to any changes whatsoever to the State budget.

In addition, every district has a minimum of one Senator and one Representative responsible for overseeing its needs.

Consequently, ALL funding decisions for ALL districts, require multiple approvals and no single legislator can honestly claim sole credit for the funding received by the district.

Any legislator who does claim such an accomplishment, is either lying or admitting to inappropriate, unethical, and probably illegal manipulation of the budget approval process.

The starting point for all budget decisions is the executive branch and its various departments.

Every department develops its own budget priorities for maintenance and new construction.

The Department of Transportation (DOT) monitors the condition of roads, highways, harbors, and airports. The Department of Education (DOE) does the same with school facilities.

The Governor works with the departments, comes to agreement on priorities, and presents the final budget to the legislative branch.

The House and Senate then review the Governor’s budget and priorities, possibly adding or subtracting various line items and projects.

Both the House and the Senate must agree in order to approve any changes to the Governors proposed budget.

Any attempts by the legislature to add or subtract from those priorities will normally require agreement from the department responsible for implementing those changes (new school, new highway, new park etc).

Yes, absolutely certain legislators in positions of leadership and/or the Chair of the Senate Ways and Means and House Finance committee – have greater access and impact on budget decisions.

But no single legislator has the power or authority to build a new school, or highway, or community park or most anything.

And, per the State Constitution, ALL decision making by any legislative committee, must take place in a public meeting.

Thus if WAM or Finance Chair makes any committee decisions impacting the budget outside of a public meeting – that Chair is breaking the law.

And yes, the legislature (but no individual legislator) can also “spend money” via “bills” that are outside the main State budget. These “money bills” for specific projects must be approved by the House and Senate, AND the governor who will always consult with the related departments.

Bottom line:

Any legislator who intentionally manipulates the process, bypasses the normal checks and balances, and directs funding to their own personal and/or political projects, is a thief.

A district’s roads, schools, parks, and essential infrastructure will be funded at a basic level regardless of the legislator elected to represent that district.

Any increases or changes to the basic funding contained within a departments priority plan and overall State budget, requires the review and approval of multiple entities.

No single legislator, regardless of position can legally approve, disapprove, or alter any state budget item that’s under the purview of a State executive branch agency.

However, almost every legislator will distribute “constituent communications” (newsletters etc) taking credit for the state funding that comes into their district.

Gary Hooser
former Hawaiʻi State Senator and Majority Leader

Many have asked me for a concise, island by island – “If I lived in the district, this is who I would vote for” listing of candidates. The criteria I used to evaluate the candidates and come to a decision is posted here:

PLEASE SHARE WIDELY.
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U.S. House of Representatives
CD1 Jarrett Keohokalole

CD2 Jill Tokuda

Lieutenant Governor Della Au Belatti
Read: Why I believe Della Au Belatti is the best choice for L.G.

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Hawaiʻi Island

State House of Representatives – Hawaiʻi Island

District #2 Holt, Cristina (Tina)
Hilo

District #3 Keawekane, Kuulei (Kiana)
Portion of Hilo · Keaukaha · Orchidlands Estate · Ainaloa · Hawaiian Acres · Fern Acres · Portions of Kurtistown & Keaʻau

State Senate – Hawaiʻi Island

Senate District #2 Aynessazian, Tanya Yamanaka
Puna

County Council – Hawaiʻi Island

District #2
Kagiwada, Jennifer (Jenn)

District #4
Hoffeld, Cyd L.

District #5
Matson, Shannon

District #6
Canelas, Justin R.

District #7
Powers, Manu

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Maui, Molokaʻi, and Lānaʻi

State House of Representatives – Maui

District #10 Kaho’ohanohano, Ki’i
Portion of Waiehu · Paukūkalo · Wailuku · Wailuku Heights · Waikapū · Hayashi Village

District #12 Kuoha, Keoni
Makawao · Hāliʻimaile · Pukalani · Kula · Pūlehu · ʻUlupalakua · Kanaio · Kahikinui

District #14 Kiakona, Pa’ele
Lāhainā · Kahakuloa · Waiheʻe · Maʻalaea · Olowalu · Lahainaluna · Kaʻanapali · Mahinahina · Kahana · Honokahua

State Senate – Maui
No recommendations

Maui Mayor – Incumbent Mayor Bissen, Richard T. Jr.

Maui Council

Councilmember (East Maui)
Sinenci, Shane

Councilmember (West Maui)
Paltin, Tamara Akikio

Councilmember (Kahului)
Kamekona, Carol Lee

Councilmember (South Maui)
King, Kelly Takaya

Councilmember (Upcountry)
Pahia, Bobby

Councilmember (Molokaʻi)
Rawlins-Fernandez, Keani

Councilmember (Lānaʻi)
Johnson, Gabe

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Kauaʻi and Niʻihau

Kauaʻi Mayor, State Senate, State House of Representatives – No recommendations

Kauaʻi County Council – Each voter may cast up to 7 votes.

Fern Ānuenue Holland

Trysten Fernandes Caberto

Mike Coots

Michelle Kaleiohi Correa

Umi Martin

James Trujillo

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City and County of Honolulu – Oʻahu

State House of Representatives – Oʻahu

District #19 Pacarro, Kahi
Waiʻalae-Kāhala · ʻĀina Haina · Niu Valley · Kuliʻouʻou

District #21 Morrow, Jake Takaya
Pālolo Valley — St. Louis Heights — Kaimukī — Maunalani Heights — Wilhelmina Rise —

District #26 Fujinaka, Janel S.
Makiki, Tantalus, Punchbowl, and Papakōlea

District #28 Alves, Nadia
Sand Island · Iwilei · Chinatown

District #30 Kealoha, Kekoa O Pololu
Kalihi · Kalihi Kai · Keʻehi Lagoon · Hickam Village

District #39 Rosenlee, Corey
Royal Kunia, Village Park, Honouliuli, Ho‘opili, and Portion of Waipahu

District #42 Paris, Anthony Makana
Portions of Varona Village, ‘Ewa, and Kapolei, Fernandez Village

District #45 Kaopua, Kalehua
Waiʻanae · Mākaha

State Senate – Oʻahu

Senate District #13 Nakamura, Jordan Kapono
Dowsett Highlands · Puʻunui · Nuʻuanu · Pacific Heights · Pauoa · Punchbowl · Pālama · Liliha · Iwilei · Chinatown · Downtown

Senate District #14 MacPherson, Christy
Kapālama, ‘Ālewa, Kalihi, Kalihi Valley, Ft. Shafter, Moanalua Gardens & Valley, Red Hill

Senate District #17 Brown, Nani
Portion of Mililani · Mililani Mauka · Waipiʻo Acres · Launani Valley · Wahiawā · Whitmore Village

Honolulu City Council

District VI
Dos Santos Tam, Tyler

District II
Weyer, Matt

Note: The above are my personal choices “If I lived in the district…” and do not represent the position of any organization. My decision was made after much thought, speaking directly with many candidates, reading the websites, the Civil Beat interviews, and talking to others.

I believe the above listed candidates share my core values of putting people and the planet above corporate profits, AND will serve in a manner that is proactive, working together with their colleagues, and our community, to resolve the many challenges facing our island home.

I purposefully focused primarily on “new candidates” and refrained from endorsing incumbents and uncontested races in the State legislature.

A longer version of the above listings that includes a narrative as to “why” I might be supporting the various candidates, can be seen at 2026 Primary Election – Candidates You Can Count On

Please help spread the word.

Imua.

Gary Hooser
Who is this guy Gary Hooser?

If the below doesn’t make you sit up and take notice AND take action, I really don’t know what to say.

But Bob Marley does, and he says it better than I ever could.

“It’s not all that glitters is gold. Half the story has never been told.

So now you see the light. You stand up for your rights. Get up, stand up, stand up for your rights”.

Read on about how big money is seeking to control the outcome of our upcoming August 8 Primary Election, AND see a list of the candidates benefiting.

Important Caveat: I’m not questioning the character or integrity of the candidates listed below. However it goes without saying that this Pacific Resource Partnership (PRP) SuperPac, For A Better Tomorrow, would not be providing such generous support unless it believed these candidates will in the future, support the SuperPac (and by extension PRP’s) pro-development, big business, big money, agenda.

Further, though it’s illegal for the SuperPac to “coordinate” the funding and media purchases with the candidate, it’s a given that each of the below listed candidates have some “relationship” with PRP and or related entities. This relationship may be personal friendships, interviews, participation by the candidate in a PRP workshop or candidate training program – or other.

Regardless as to whether it’s a SuperPac, a nonprofit advocacy organization, a labor union, or an individual like myself – no one offers support to any candidate unless they feel strongly the candidate supports the basic core values and world view of that org or person offering the support.

Please take action to support 2026 Primary Election – Candidates we can count on – who are saying NO to big money and big development and YES to putting the rights and needs of people and the planet above profits.

Just the facts:

Pacific Resource Partnership (PRP) and their SuperPac “For A Better Tomorrow” are funding candidates they believe support their world view.

Below is a list.

Per the 07/09/26 disclosure report, $1,466,000 (rounded) was spent (in this one report) by SuperPac “For A Better Tomorrow” on “ELECTIONEERING COMMUNICATIONS – 2026 PRIMARY/1ST SPECIAL ELECTION for electioneering communications” (mailings, radio, tv, social media etc) in support or opposition of candidates in Hawaiʻi State and County campaigns.

This funding paid for “electioneering communications” in support of candidates running for Lieutenant Governor, Hawaiʻi and Kauaʻi Mayoral campaigns, State Legislative seats AND County Council candidates in every County.

SuperPac “For A Better Tomorrow” is connected to Pacific Resource Partnership (PRP) and financed via Hawaiʻi Carpenters Market Recovery Program Fund and Hawaiʻi Regional Council of Carpenters Political Action Fund Account.

Below is an exact listing of the various candidates, communication/media companies that were funded, the funding amounts, and the date the funding was utilized – per the actual Campaign Spending Commission reports.

Eddie Ombac
Red Horse Strategies $7,819
7/09/26

Chantel Perrin
Red Horse Strategies $8,184
7/09/26

Tommy Waters
Red Horse Strategies $23,543
7/09/26

Heather Kimball
Red Horse Strategies $8,799
7/09/26

Derek Kawakami
Orlattle LLC d/b/a The Adwell Group $125,000
6/25/2026 – 8/8/2026

Bernard Carvalho, Dane Smith, Todd Ozaki
Orlattle LLC d/b/a The Adwell Group $105,000
7/1/2026 – 8/8/2026

Yuki Lei Sugimura
Polaris Campaigns, Inc. $60,000
7/5/2026 – 8/8/2026

Bernard Carvalho
Targeted Platform Media, LLC $114,659
7/1/2026 – 8/8/2026

Derek Kawakami
Targeted Platform Media, LLC $436,952
7/4/2026 – 8/8/2026

Yuki Lei Sugimura, Kauanoe Batangan, Derrick Cabiles, Ashley Lindsey
Orlattle LLC d/b/a The Adwell Group $255,000
7/6/2026 – 8/8/2026

Tommy Waters, Tricia Nakamatsu, Donna Mercado Kim, Rachele Lamosao, Andrew Phonsouvanh, Ian Ross, Michael Ratcliffe, Loren Doctolero, Daisy Hartsfield, Darius Kila
Orlattle LLC d/b/a The Adwell Group $289,500
7/6/2026 – 8/8/2026

Chantel Perrin, Eddie Ombac, Heather Kimball
Orlattle LLC d/b/a The Adwell Group $30,000
7/11/2026 – 8/8/2026

In response to requests as to my thoughts on State and County races across all the islands, below are my “If I lived in the district, this is who I would vote for…” recommendations.

As previously discussed my choice for Lieutenant Governor is Rep. Della Belatti.

My statewide choices for House and Senate are here: “If I lived in the district this is who I would vote in State House and Senate races”

For Congress, if I lived in CD1 I would be voting for Jarrett Keohokalole) in his race against incumbent Congressman and blue dog Democrat Ed Case.

But for the past 46 years I’ve lived in CD2 and I will for sure be voting for Congresswoman Jill Tokuda.

Criteria: Evaluating candidates – the 6 things I look closely at

Breaking News: I just posted this list of candidates receiving big money support from a local SuperPac, “Buying influence by any other name is still buying influence”.

So…here are my choices for the 2026 Primary “If I lived in the district, this is who I would vote for County Council…”. I encourage all to do your own research and come to your own conclusions…and then VOTE!

Hawaiʻi County Council

District #2
Kagiwada, Jennifer (Jenn)
Since she was first elected in 2022, I’ve watched from a distance as Councilmember Jennifer Kagiwada navigated the political terrain of the 9 member Hawaiʻi County Council, learning the ropes, and growing increasingly assertive on issues important to her (and our) community. I have no doubt that Councilmember Kagiwada supports my core values of putting people and the planet first, ahead of corporate profits, and if I lived in the district, she’d get my vote.

District #4
Hoffeld, Cyd L.
While I’ve not met personally candidate Cyd Hoffeld, she’s endorsed by people I trust completely at HULIPAC. A review of her life experience indicates clearly she’s a solid choice who will serve well District #4, Hawaiʻi County, and all of our extended community.

District #5
Matson, Shannon
Candidate Shannon Matson has the experience and track record in the community that clearly demonstrates her qualifications and core values. I have known and followed Shannon Matson’s work for many years, and support her without any reservation. Shannon is also endorsed by HULIPAC,

District #6
Canelas, Justin R.
Candidate Canelas is also a solid HULIPAC “pick”. Which by itself is enough for me. However, I’ve also spoken to other friends in the community, reviewed his website, watched him being interviewed, and reviewed a wide variety of other public information – which all point in the right direction. The election of Justin Canelas will serve well the needs of Hawaiʻi County residents, hard-working local people, AND protect always our natural environment.

District #7
Powers, Manu
From all indications, Manu Powers is a candidate that will serve with distinction. A look at her record of community involvement shows an individual driven to make our world a better place. It’s not surprising at all that HULIPAC is endorsing candidate Manu Powers AND it is without hesitation that I also offer her my support as well.

Honolulu City Council

District VI
Dos Santos Tam, Tyler
Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam is an incumbent that has without question has demonstrated his values, his independence, his willingness to speak out, AND his assertiveness in pushing forth important public policy initiatives that if/when passed into law are good for people and the planet. He would definitely be getting my vote if I were living in his district.

District II
Weyer, Matt
Councilmember Matt Weyer is awesome. True.

Maui County

Maui Mayor
Incumbent Mayor Bissen, Richard T. Jr.

Maui Council

Councilmember (East Maui)
Sinenci, Shane

Councilmember (West Maui)
Paltin, Tamara Akikio

Councilmember (Kahului)
Kamekona, Carol Lee

Councilmember (South Maui)
King, Kelly Takaya

Councilmember (Upcountry)
Pahia, Bobby

Councilmember (Molokai, Maui, Lāna‘i, and Kaho‘olawe)
Rawlins-Fernandez, Keani

Councilmember (Lānaʻi)
Johnson, Gabe

I know personally each of the above Maui Council candidates and support the election of each, without any reservation whatsoever. The proven history of achievement through the difficult and challenging times, the diverse mix of experience, the commitment each has shown via their work in community over the years – all are present and strong with each. We should all be so lucky as to have a County Council of this caliber.

Kauaʻi County

Kauaʻi County Mayor
No recommendation at this time

Kauaʻi Council

Fern Ānuenue Holland
Fern Ānuenue Holland is the only incumbent I am publicly supporting. I’ve known and worked closely with Councilmember Holland on a myriad of issues, and have complete confidence in her abilities and character. If I only had one vote, she would get it.

Trysten Fernandes Caberto
Candidate Trysten Caberto impressed me immediately with his outspoken thoughtfulness at a recent candidate forum. We later sat down over coffee and spoke at length. Needless to say, I came away from that conversation impressed, and believing wholeheartedly that this 30 year-old Hawaiian, who went away to school, and now has come back to serve his/our community, is deserving of our strong support. Please consider offering candidate Trysten Fernandes Caberto one of your 7 votes for Kauaʻi Council.

Mike Coots
Candidate Mike Coots has a compelling personal story that demonstrates without question his ability to overcome challenges, AND climb mountains. He is a successful entrepreneur who by definition knows how to figure out solutions to complex problems, AND he does not understand the meaning of giving up or quitting. On top of it all, candidate Coots is committed to protecting the land, the water, AND the people of his/our community.

Michelle Kaleiohi Correa
In an election year that will add at least 4 brand new Council members, the 17 years of experience working within County government gives candidate Michelle Correa a valuable insight and grounding available to no other that is running. Her addition to the mix of newcomers provides the diversity of experience needed for a top notch team.

Umi Martin
A farmer, small business owner, and active community member – Candidate Umi Martin brings to the table the real life experience needed to support our goal of achieving true food self sufficiency AND expanding our support for small local businesses. For me, these are top priorities and I believe candidate Martin can help provide the leadership to help us get there.

James Trujillo
I’ve known personally and walked beside candidate Trujillo for many years. I’ve no doubts whatsoever as to his core values, and when the crunch comes, we know without a doubt what side he will bee on 🙂 Jimmy walks the talk in life and practice, and has talked the walk via community radio for decades. It’s time now for us to help him in this next phase of his community service, with one of our 7 votes.

For more information and background/strategies pertaining specifically to the Kauaʻi County Council race: Kauaʻi Council – plowing through the numbers

Of course every candidate running, cares about their/our community and wants to do good. And each brings different strengths and weaknesses to the table.

But I/we must make a choice, and after thinking long and hard about this, speaking directly with many candidates, reading the websites, the Civil Beat interviews, and talking to others – I believe the above listed candidates share my core values, AND will serve in a manner that is proactive, working together with their colleagues, and our community, to resolve the many challenges facing our island home.

Please help spread the word.

Imua.

Gary Hooser
Who is this guy Gary Hooser?

There are 26 candidates running for election to the 7 member Kaua’i County Council.

On August 8, the top 14 vote getters will move forward to the General Election.

Based on past elections, candidates ranking #1, #2, #3, and #4 in the Primary will generally be considered “safe” and almost guaranteed to win on November 3.

Slots #5, #6, #7, #8, and #9, are where the “action” and “movement” will be, as these 5 candidates battle it out, hoping to end up in the winners circle at #7 or above.

It’s rare for #9 or #10 to move up to #7, AND never, ever, does #14 move up the 7 slots needed to win.

Obviously finishing in the top 7 on August 8th is desirable, but to have a real chance and maintain momentum heading into the General, a candidate must finish at least in the top 10 (IMHO).

On November 3rd, Kaua’i voters will choose their top 7 (elected from the 14).

Once elected, all decisions of the 7 member Council are decided by “majority vote”, which means 4 is the magic number.

Ideally, the entire Council works together as a team with each member serving in a position that best suits their individual experience, skillset, and capacity.

The reality however is that 4 members can run the show.

4 Council members working in alignment will choose the new Council Chair, decide what measures pass or fail, which Mayoral appointments are approved or not, and to a great extent County budget priorities.

Yes, 4 is the magic number.

To override a Mayoral veto requires 5 votes, so 5 is an even more magical number, but a 4 vote majority is what it takes to run the show.

The collective “mindset” of the Council majority determines everything.

The majority could be forward thinking, assertive and willing to take action to move our community forward.

Conversely, the Council majority may be timid, unwilling to “rock the boat”, and prefer instead to just hold tight, maintain the status quo, and say yes to whatever the Mayor wants.

Or the majority could be “fluid”, dysfunctional, contentious, and unable to work together.

Each voter may cast “up to 7 votes” for 7 different candidates, but there’s no requirement that all 7 votes must be cast.

Akamai voters who understand the voting dynamics will cast their votes wisely, and only vote for those candidates they truly believe in, AND will likely work well together.

Experienced voters will never, ever, ever, vote for their favorite top 4 or 5 and then go “eeny, meeny, miny, moe” to cast the final 2 or 3 votes.

Nope. Smart voters realize the 6th or 7th vote they cast could beat out their top choices, by their own one vote.

Think about it, and ask “If you were running, who would your mother vote for?”

Naturally, she would vote for you.

But if she voted for you AND then cast her other 6 votes for 6 others, those votes could be the same votes that beat you. Imagine losing an election by a single vote that was cast by your own mother.

But of course, I am nobody’s mother 😉

My voting strategy in the Primary is to help boost my choices of the best newcomers “up” on the list of 14, and then in the General focus mostly on those in the critical “middle slots” of #5, #6, #7, #8, and #9.

With that in mind – I will be voting for Fern Holland, James Trujillo, Trysten Fernandes Caberto, Mike Coots, Umi Martin, and Michelle Kaleiohi Correa in the Primary on August 8th.

I am purposefully only voting for a single incumbent, Fern Holland, because I want to give more space and a little more boost to the newcomers.

Of course all 26 candidates care about our community and want to do good. And each brings different strengths and weaknesses to the table.

But I/we must make a choice, and after thinking long and hard about this, speaking directly with candidates, reading the websites, the Civil Beat interviews, and talking to others – I believe these 6 share my core values, AND will serve in a manner that is proactive, working together with their colleagues, and our community, to resolve the many challenges facing our island home.

As good hearted as they may be, I’m not looking for “space-holders” that just sit there. I’m also not interested in voting for “talkers” who posture for the camera, then do nothing. My votes will go to doers who have a history of showing up.

End Notes: The Hawaiʻi Sunshine Law HRS Chapter 92 forbids more than 2 members of the Council from meeting in private to discuss County business. Consequently any Council majority must have their discussions and make their decisions in a properly noticed public meeting where the public is given an opportunity to speak. It’s illegal for 3 or more members of the Council to meet in private and discuss County business, whether that meeting is in their Council office, on Zoom, in a restaurant or bar, in someones living room or kitchen, or via “serial communications/text/phone/email”.

“Uncle, I need your help…”.

Those were not her words, but that’s the message I heard when reading yesterday’s email from State House candidate and friend, Nadia Alves.

Her message was direct, and similar to that of many other campaigns, all facing the same challenge.

To paraphrase:

“Ballots will be arriving in peoples homes in two weeks. I’m pushing hard to get out a final “campaign mailer” but we’re $2,200 short and need to go to press by Tuesday July 7th at the very latest. Can you help with an online contribution of $20 to $200? Mahalo for any help you can offer!”

My answer of course is absolutely yes.

As I’ve mentioned in the past, I think Nadia is awesome, I trust her completely, and yes I’m going to dig deep, make a campaign contribution, and help her close this campaign out as strong as possible.

I ask also that you join me in helping Nadia. Whether it’s $20 or $200, anything you can contribute online today especially, is welcome, much needed, and will be greatly appreciated.

Whether you live in District 28, Chinatown, Iwilei, and Mauliola (Sand Island) or reside on a totally different island – it doesn’t matter.

When Nadia Alves wins, we will all win.

For the past few months she’s been working hard every single day in her district, knocking on doors, holding signs, attending events, and talking one-on-one with voters.

To get a glimpse of Nadia’s core values watch this very short PBS “Insights” clip where she says, “Our elected officials need to be accountable to the people, not special interests.”

She’s been endorsed by Our Hawai‘i, the Patsy Mink Pac, 350.org, Unite Here Local 5, Hawai‘i College Democrats, H.O.K.U., and Our Revolution Hawai‘i. She’s refusing big money corporate and special interest campaign donations, AND she’s on the Moho ʻĀina slate!

Please. Help me help Nadia – today.

Trust me, I would not be making this singular ask to help this one particular individual if I did not have total trust and confidence in her character, her values, her ability and skills, and her uncompromising commitment to doing the right thing for the right reasons.

Imua.
Gary Hooser
Please also read and share widely (with other young emerging leaders especially) – “From My Heart To Yours”

Here are other worthy candidates (State House, Senate, and L.G.) from across the islands also deserving of your help and support. If I lived in the District, my 2026 primary election vote would go to…