Author Archives: garyhooser

The ballots have arrived and questions are streaming in from friends on every island…asking how I would vote “if I lived in the District” – Below includes Maui, Oahu (parts), Kauaʻi, OHA Statewide, and constitutional amendments. Big Island – I’m … Continue reading →

So who you going to vote for? Some will keep that answer private and others will wear it on their sleeve (or their car bumper or on the yard sign in front of their house). As a political columnist writing … Continue reading →

Will you be casting your vote based mostly on the person, or the Party? Recently I received an email asking a simple and straightforward question on this topic. In formulating an answer, my brain quickly became entangled in complicated thoughts … Continue reading →

“I’m now curious: How does the Speaker get that position – is it a public vote or in-house vote by the other reps?” This was the question most asked following my recent Policy & Politics column How does Speaker Nadine … Continue reading →

House Members opposing rule changes will claim there are “too many bills” and time does not allow every bill to receive a hearing and a vote. A quick google search shows that The Colorado and North Dakota constitutions require a … Continue reading →

So what happens next? There’s the General Election of November 5, the 2025 legislative session, the movement for legislative reform, and yes it’s not too early to be thinking about the 2026 elections. At the top of my list and … Continue reading →

According to the coconut wireless, Representative Nadine Nakamura, who represents District 15 on Kaua`i (Hā’ena, Wainiha, Hanalei, Princeville, Kīlauea, Anahola, Keālia, Kapa‘a, portions of Wailua, and Kawaihau), will likely become the next Speaker of the State House of Representatives. As … Continue reading →

There’s so much to celebrate and so much still yet to be done… I’m often asked, “How did HAPA first start? What was the nexus or the tipping point that first launched HAPA?” The short answer is that like most … Continue reading →

Getting old is something most of us don’t think much about until it actually happens. At 70, my health is good, I’m active and still wake up every day seeking some new adventure or challenge. Recently however, I’ve spent some … Continue reading →

I’m sitting at reflexion, heading toward recharge, knowing with certainty that quitting is never an option. My 92 year-old mother is heading down the home stretch, and not doing so well. Saturday morning I telephoned my Mom as I do … Continue reading →