Author Archives: garyhooser

“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 →

The Hawai’i House of Representatives is at a tipping point. The toxic pay-to-play culture that puts helping friends and punishing enemies ahead of implementing good public policy must go. The practice of individual legislators having the unilateral power to kill … Continue reading →

Kim Coco Iwamoto’s District 25 win against 30-year incumbent, representative and Speaker of the House for the past six years, Scott Saiki, is a truly historic achievement. Saiki was publicly endorsed and supported by U.S. Senator Brian Schatz, Governor Josh … Continue reading →

Kim Coco Iwamoto has won, leading by 202 votes (Hawaiʻi New Now). She took on, and is taking out – the most powerful establishment figure in the Hawaiʻi House of Representatives, Speaker of the House Scott Saiki. He’s been there … Continue reading →