Author Archives: garyhooser

The 2019 legislative session officially opens on January 16th, and concludes 60 “session days” later on May 2, “sine die” (traditional term used to adjourn the legislature – Latin for “proceedings that have been adjourned”). “Session days” are those days … Continue reading →

During the 2018 elections, Pono Hawaii Initiative (PHI) a 501C4 nonprofit organization of which I am the Executive Director, endorsed and supported 32 candidates for public office at the state legislative and county council level on all islands. At the … Continue reading →

Are the rest of us as committed as hotel housekeepers to raising up Hawaii? Can we as a community accomplish in 60 days what the hotel housekeepers and restaurant workers achieved in 51 days? The 2,700 UniteHere Local 5 members … Continue reading →

As newly elected legislators at all levels begin taking office, it is important to remind everyone that robust debate and holding our politicians accountable is critical to a healthy democracy. To those politicians who are thin of skin, I encourage … Continue reading →

The mid-terms are over and it’s time now to get down to business, the people’s business to be specific. You ran for office and were elected under the banner of the Democratic Party of Hawaii, and the hope for many … Continue reading →

I think taking one day per year and dedicating it to being thankful is a good idea.  Actually, I wake up most mornings just being thankful for being alive, thankful for my good health, for my wonderful family, and for … Continue reading →

Today being the first post-election meeting of the Kauai County Council is sure to be non-eventful on its surface.  But the sub-currents are no doubt running strong, even as the winners are gracious and the losers act like all is … Continue reading →

In politics, audacity is not a characteristic that many politicians are known for, especially during an election year.  The award for the most audacious politician in Hawaii for the year 2018, certainly must go to Kauai Councilmember Ross Kagawa. Councilmember … Continue reading →

Aloha, Like you, I care deeply about the problems and challenges facing us here in Hawaii, my home and the birthplace of my children and grandchildren. There are many pathways to effect change but the lens of advocacy through which … Continue reading →

Four years ago the elected leadership of Maui County, betrayed the people of Maui. Betrayal is a strong word, but after much reflection I do not hesitate to use it. Many thanks to the Maui Independent for the excellent article … Continue reading →