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)

Choosing the best from the rest –

Deciding on who to vote for and or who to endorse involves examining the totality of the circumstances surrounding the individuals who are running, the office they are running for, and the general circumstances and political landscape. All are imperfect … Continue reading

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I’ve finally come to a decision on the Hawaiʻi Lieutenant Governor’s race

Sherry Menor is a very nice person whom I have known for years. We’ve interacted since my time serving in the Senate, normally on opposite sides of the issues. She has always been pleasant and professional but we each see … Continue reading

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Kaua`i – Counting Votes For Affordable Housing

The lack of affordable housing is cited as the #1 issue by just about every candidate on the ballot in the Primary Election scheduled for August 13.  We have more people living in the bushes, alongside the roadways, and under … Continue reading

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Money talks. Listen, learn, and decide for yourself who you think should be Hawaii’s next governor.

The clarity of the choices and the distinctions between the candidates could not be any more lucid. Kai is our guy. Breaking – Today’s Civil Beat Lt. Gov. Josh Green has spent $2.65 million. 27% of his contributions larger than … Continue reading

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Sergio Alcubilla and Ed Case – Update On Progress Made In 9 Short Months

The story of Sergio Alcubilla candidate for Congress in Hawaii’s CD1, reminds me of “The Little Engine That Could”. I am guessing you have either read it to your children or perhaps when you were a child remember it being … Continue reading

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Damning evidence the State discovered, and ignored

I’m flabbergasted to be reminded yet again of the State of Hawaii’s negligence with regard to pesticide contamination. I was recently sent a legal paper by David M. Forman Director, Environmental Law Program William S. Richardson School of Law, University … Continue reading

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On Kai Kahele…

In response to those who have reached out and asked about my thoughts on the latest Kahele campaign developments: I agree, that losing the opportunity for public matching funds is not good news but my response…once I got past the … Continue reading

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Who controls government in Hawaiʻi ?

Who really controls government here in Hawaiʻi?  Who picks and chooses our elected leaders? Who decides who wins and who loses? There’s really no mystery, no black box, no secret formula, and for sure there is no conspiracy. It’s all … Continue reading

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Time sensitive: 5 reforms that will make a difference

On June 29th at 2pm the Hawaiʻi Commission To Improve Standards Of Conduct (CISC) is scheduled to discuss recommendations on campaign finance reform. Will you join me in sending an email to StandardsofConduct@capitol.hawaii.gov in support of the below 5 recommendations? … Continue reading

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The Impudence Of 4 Hawaiʻi Senators

Did you read the latest on the impudence, arrogance, tone-deafness, or at the minimum very bad judgment surrounding 4 Senators and the notorious Hu Honua project? “Hu Honua Lobbyist Hosted Fundraiser For Senators Who Were Key To Energy Bill” Maybe … Continue reading

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