Yes, there were some heartbreaking losses on November 5th, but there were also 4 new solid Hawai’i change-makers who won at the State and County level.

Individually each is a powerhouse of potential. Working together in alignment with incumbent allies and community – that potential can move mountains.

Kim Coco Iwamoto (HD25 Ala Moana, Kaka‘ako, Downtown) has a long and stellar record of achievement demonstrating her clear and unwavering commitment to people and the planet. She defeated House Speaker Scott Saiki in an election for the history books. The unambiguous message sent by her win is that business as usual in the House – is over.

Ikaika Hussey (HD29 Kamehameha Heights, Kalihi) proved the power of perseverance and hard work. He soundly defeated a new incumbent recently appointed by Governor Josh Green. Hussey has extensive experience and a solid track record working in community with a focus on economic and environmental justice.

Tina Grandinetti (HD20 Kāhala, Wai‘alae, Kaimukī, Kapahulu) is the real deal. She’s unafraid to be herself, to share with others her values, goals, and dreams, and to do the work necessary to make those dreams a reality.

Fern Holland won election to the Kauaʻi County Council and is on the list because she too is a “putting people and the planet first” change-maker, AND she lives in (HD15). She will be a catalyst for change on the Council and she will likely also have the ear of the new House Speaker.

What qualifies each of these 4 unique individuals to be on the “change-maker” list?

1) Each has a proven track record making change happen.
2) Each knows the value of community engagement.
3) Each has zero interest in just “holding space” or playing the so-called “long game”. They are there to make change happen.
4) Each feels the urgency of the moment. Each can see clearly that family living under the bridge. Each knows without a doubt the seas are rising, streams and drinking water are to be protected, and those who have more should give more.
5) Each knows the value of doing their homework, knowing the facts, and avoiding B.S..
6) None are wall-flowers. Each is willing to raise their hand, ask the tough questions, present the hard facts, and if needed and if even alone, push back against power.
7) Each is surrounded by a solid support base of friends, family, and allies, who have high expectations and prepared to go to the mat to help.
8) Each will vote their conscience without seeking permission to do so.
9) Each knows the value of open communications and long term relationships, built on trust.

These 4 individuals are change-makers we can count on. I say this without any hesitation whatsoever.

Regardless of where you live, please join me in thanking each of them, for being there – for us. repiwamoto@capitol.hawaii.gov repgrandinetti@capitol.hawaii.gov rephussey@capitol.hawaii.gov fernanuenue@gmail.com

Tell them mahalo plenty, and let them know we have their back.

To prove our commitment is not just an empty promise – please also email House Speaker, Representative Nadine Nakamura (HD15 Hā’ena to Kapa’a, Wailua and Kawaihau) repnakamura@capitol.hawaii.gov

Ask her politely and professionally to end the practice of committee chairs “killing bills” behind closed doors for personal and political (electoral) reasons. Ask her to work together with reform minded Representatives (including those listed above) to amend House rules and require committee members themselves to vote publicly yay or nay on bills, after a properly noticed public hearing and discussion.

Please. Take tangible, meaningful action today and help the change-makers move Hawai’i forward to a new era, and remind the Speaker and every member of the House that business as usual is over.

Gary Hooser