Note: Neighbor Island And Uncontested Races Are Not Profiled
Dist. 24: Manoa
Isaac Choy
Democrat
Age: 54
Job: Certified public accountant
What qualifies you to be a state representative?
Twenty-five years of small business experience and active involvement in the community, a great concern for education, extensive background in the legislative process. A deep caring for the future of the Manoa community.
What is one thing you would do in office to improve the local economy?
It is very hard for state government to have an immediate influence on the economy. But timing of certain expenditures such as CIP projects will certainly brighten the local economy over the short haul. I would look for short term solutions with a history of proven success to stimulate the economy
Do you support convening a Constitutional Convention? Please explain.
Yes, it has been too long since the last one in 1978. Many issues must be addressed and debated as we move into a new century. I have not formed an opinion on many of these issues and will listen carefully to all side before rendering an opinion.
Do you support Oahu’s planned rail-transit system? Please explain.
This question will be answered in the November election. I recognize the need to fix our traffic gridlock problems and give people an alternative to commuting. I am not convinced that a steel rail transit solution is the best alternative.
What can the Legislature do to improve Hawaii’s public education?
Education systems can always be improved with smaller class size and improved infrastructure. But I believe with all of the fiscal challenges that we face at this time, the one element that can have an immediate impact on improving our education systems is teachers. I would support our teachers, which I believe will make an immediate impact on the quality of our education.
Jerilyn Jeffryes
Republican
Age: 66
Job: Retired medical administrator
Past: Resident of Manoa for 15 years; dedicated volunteer in the community
What qualifies you to be a state representative?
Resident of Manoa for 15 years. My administrative and business background, including volunteering for various nonprofit organizations.
What is one thing you would do in office to improve the local economy?
Advocate for an affordable Hawaii for residents by supporting the reduction or repeal of taxes on food, medicines and health-care costs.
Do you support convening a Constitutional Convention? Please explain.
I support the convening of a Constitutional Convention so that the citizens of Hawaii have an opportunity to decide if revisions are needed to laws that affect their lives.
Do you support Oahu’s planned rail-transit system? Please explain.
I do not support Oahu’s planned rail-transit system because of the expensive price tag to taxpayers, especially for property taxpayers that will be paying for the maintenance and subsidies.
What can the Legislature do to improve Hawaii’s public education?
Afford principals and parents more control in decisions for respective schools, and provide charter schools with equal funding.
