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)

What does Donald Trump’s banner have to do with it?

Posted on September 4, 2020 by garyhooser

We are living in extraordinary times surrounded on all sides by uncertainty. Fortunately, our home is on the most isolated island of the most isolated island chain in the middle of the Pacific ocean. In this time of social upheaval, … Continue reading →

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COVID Economic Crisis Deserves Special Session

Posted on September 1, 2020 by garyhooser

We are in the midst of the greatest crisis of our lifetime. The legislature should convene in a special session as soon as possible and go to work. There are many challenges to be resolved, and no reason to further … Continue reading →

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Affordable Housing – Which side are you on?

Posted on August 26, 2020 by garyhooser

For policy wonks working on affordable housing. While the below piece is Kauai specific, I think the principles are important and universal. Hooser – Policy and Politics Title: Affordable Housing – Which side are you on? The affordable housing conversation … Continue reading →

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Where do we go from here?

Posted on August 18, 2020 by garyhooser

Aloha, A friend sent me a short message a few days ago asking, “Where do we go from here?” My initial response was simply, “Forward.” Later, I added, “We rest a bit, then we go back at it. We help … Continue reading →

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Election Results: Iwamoto/Saiki, Ritte/DeCoite – Too Close To Call

Posted on August 10, 2020 by garyhooser

#winning In a stunning display of strength for the progressive movement in Hawaii, Kim Coco Iwamoto is within 162 votes of beating Speaker of the House Scott Saiki, arguably one of the most powerful men in Hawaii. HD26 (Kakaako) Hawaii … Continue reading →

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For Monsanto and friends it’s politics as usual: Buying influence at the state legislature –

Posted on August 6, 2020 by garyhooser

Does anyone else find it interesting that a lobbyist for Monsanto is running the House Leadership PAC? House Leadership by definition is Speaker Scott Saiki and his team. You really can’t make this stuff up. A Political Action Committee established … Continue reading →

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Title: Why Jacquie Esser Over Judge Alm For Honolulu Prosecutor?

Posted on August 5, 2020 by garyhooser

If you believe that our criminal justice system needs an overhaul then Jacquie Esser is your candidate for Honolulu Prosecutor. If you believe that people should not go to jail simply because they are poor and homeless, then Jacquie is … Continue reading →

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Statewide endorsed candidates & walk-in voting/registration locations

Posted on August 3, 2020 by garyhooser

The absolute final day to vote in the 2020 Primary Election is August 8th, but the deadline to mail-in your Ballot has passed. Please consider voting this week, in person at a “Voter Service Center” or drop off your ballot … Continue reading →

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My mail-in ballot was rejected…so I’m voting in person, please join me if you can.

Posted on August 1, 2020 by garyhooser

It’s crunch time. Today is the last day to vote by mail, but I strongly encourage everyone to join me and vote in person today. Yes, vote in person! See locations below – I tried voting by mail but my … Continue reading →

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Voting for change: The time is now and the choice is yours

Posted on July 30, 2020 by garyhooser

Let’s face the facts. The majority rules. Whether it’s state, federal or county — the majority of elected office-holders drive the agenda, and a majority of voters elect those office-holders. In Hawaii, a majority of the population has historically stayed … Continue reading →

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