Today the Pono Hawaiʻi Initiative is announcing its endorsement of 15 high-quality candidates, 6 incumbents, and 9 highly electable challengers – running for election to the State House of Representatives. At least two more are forthcoming in the very near future.

As you know, I have earlier announced my strong support of Ikaika Hussey for Honolulu City Council, Sergio Alcubilla for CD1, and Kai Kahele to be Hawaiʻi’s next Governor.

In the coming days, we will be expanding our endorsement list to include candidates at all levels- on every island. All who meet our core criteria, who can win, and who share our values – putting people and the planet above corporate profits.

Electing these individuals to serve us in public office will bring a political sea change.

Imagine for a moment publicly funded elections at all levels. Imagine capping all campaign donations at $100. Imagine full disclosure of all lobbying activity.

Imagine if the needs of regular people took precedence over those of the wealthy and the corporate. Think about truly affordable housing for local families. Think about a tax structure that protects local residents, and local small businesses, shifting costs to offshore corporations, wealthy absentee investors, and others who come here to take rather than to give.

We have such an opportunity before us, but it will take each of us pulling together to be successful.

El pueblo unido, jamás será vencido. A people united will never be defeated.

We need people: To be on the ground (holding signs and canvassing) and in the air (telephone banking) – on all islands. Please contact a campaign directly or complete this volunteer form .

Yes, we also need money:
One direct mailer costs approximately $5,000.
Whether we mail one, or one per candidate – is totally up to your generosity.

A robust social media campaign will average a minimum of $500 per week over the next 10 weeks. Can you help with one week or more?

PHI is also projecting $3,000 per month for the next 2 months for other core operating expenses, events, materials, print media etc. – as are legal and appropriate for a 501c4 nonprofit.

Can you help with an online contribution () today to help with the above expenses? 200 people contributing $100 each by May 31st will do it. No amount is too small. Checks are welcome as well, Pono Hawaiʻi Initiative, P.O. Box 871, Honolulu, HI 96808. Note: Contributions are NOT tax-deductible.

That’s it. That’s the winning formula: Good candidates, people on the ground to help them, and grass-roots financial support to get the word out.

Let’s do this.

Gary Hooser
Pono Hawaiʻi Initiative 2022 Primary Endorsements For State House