In response to requests as to my thoughts on 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”

My goal also is to share soon my thoughts on OHA races and of course the Congressional campaigns (hint – without a doubt if I lived in CD1 I would be voting for Jarrett Keohokalole) in his race against incumbent Congressman and blue dog Democrat Ed Case.

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

Disclosure: I’ve listed some candidates who I have never met in person but my research shows they warrant support, AND I’ve failed to list some candidates who I do know personally, and “like” personally, but who have been less than assertive in fighting for the issues most important to me – protecting people and the planet over corporate profits.

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?