Author Archives: garyhooser

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About garyhooser

This blog represents my thoughts as an individual person and does not represent the official position of any organization I may be affiliated with. I presently serve as volunteer President of the Hawaii Alliance for Progressive Action (H.A.P.A.) www.hapahi.org I am the former Vice-Chair of the Democratic Party of Hawaii. In another past life, I was an elected member of the Kauai County Council, a Hawaii State Senator, and Majority Leader, and the Director of Environmental Quality Control for the State of Hawaii - in an even earlier incarnation I was an entrepreneur and small business owner. Yes, I am one of the luckiest guys on the planet. Please visit my website AND sign up for my newsletter (unlike any email newsletter you have ever gotten, of that I am sure) - http://www.garyhooser.com/#four “Come to the edge.” “We can’t. We’re afraid.” “Come to the edge.” “We can’t. We will fall!” “Come to the edge.” And they came. And he pushed them. And they flew. - Christopher Logue (b.1926)

Title: Rules of the House – Up close and personal

“Meet the new House boss, same as the old House boss”…is not the headline we want to see 6 months from now when “post session” reviews are conducted. The old style, behind closed doors, good ole boy, toxic culture of … Continue reading

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Here’s a copy of my most recent mass email – just in case you’re not on that list!

For some quick political speculation/entertainment/intrigue, read Down The Political Rabbit Hole (https://garyhooser.blog/2024/11/27/title-down-the-political-rabbit-hole/) on Kaua`i Mayor Derek Kawakami’s interest in serving as Governor or Lieutenant Governor. My apologies for not being timely with my thanksgiving/mahalo message. Truthfully – with all that’s … Continue reading

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Thanksgiving Missive For The Change-Makers

Without a doubt, I’m the luckiest, most fortunate guy on the entire planet. My health is good. I walk almost daily along the coastline soaking in the incredible beauty of our island. I’m surrounded by people I love and who … Continue reading

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Title: Down the political rabbit hole

Kaua‘i Mayor Derek Kawakami told Hawai’i Public Radio’s Catherine Cruz last week, ”I think ultimately I’d like to make a run for either one of the seats on the fifth floor at the state Capitol…” (either lieutenant governor or governor). … Continue reading

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Title: To the change-makers: We’ve got your back.

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 … Continue reading

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Thoughts on Trump and Hawaii. What’s next?

The general mood among many in our islands was reflected in this email I received recently. “Oh man. Just saw latest – They control house and senate. We’re going to be in hell. How will we recover? They will make … Continue reading

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Some good news and some bad news – Please take a moment to acknowledge the good…

Senator Brian Schatz (who was a co-sponsor) and Senator Mazie Hirono both stood tall with Senator Bernie Sanders and 15 other U.S. Senators, voting YES in support of a Joint Resolution of Disapproval to block the sale of over $20 … Continue reading

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Title: A New Kaua`i Council Dynamic

Congratulations to former Councilmember Arryl Kaneshiro and our brand new Councilmember Fern Anuenue Holland, both of whom recently won election to the Kaua`i County Council. They will be joining the reelected incumbent Councilmembers Mel Rapozo (Chair), Kipukai Kualii (Vice Chair), … Continue reading

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Title: Our Voice Is Our Power – Let’s Use It

A few days ago, I was speaking with a friend who suggested the State legislature or County Council involvement in passing “Resolutions” dealing with international affairs such as a ceasefire in Gaza, was a waste of time. Why encourage people … Continue reading

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Title: Innocent men, women and children are dying. U.S. funding of the killing must stop.

Regardless of who sits in the oval office, we must continue to beat the drums on behalf of people and the planet. Rest. Take a breath if you must. Now let’s get back to work. Innocent men, women and children … Continue reading

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