Note: Neighbor Island And Uncontested Races Are Not Profiled
District 44: Kalaeloa-Nanakuli
Hanalei Aipoalani
Democrat
Age: 29
Job: Business development consultant
Past: Business & community development professional
What qualifies you to be a state representative?
I am a proud product of the 44th House District — born, raised and educated (Nanakuli, Hawaii). As a respected community leader, I am fully aware of HD44’s concerns and needs as it relates to public policy and funding priorities. My ability to network and collaborate effectively with others makes me a viable candidate and representative.
What is one thing you would do in office to improve the local economy?
Given Hawaii’s rich agriculture land, I will support funding of agriculture-based alternative energy technologies to 1) create new market & employment opportunities, 2) lessen our dependence on fossil fuel, and 3) preserve and protect agriculture in Hawaii.
Do you support convening a Constitutional Convention? Please explain.
I do not support convening of a Constitutional Convention. Hawaii’s demographics continue to evolve. The change may not be in the best interest of Hawaii’s rich history. Moreover, in my humble opinion, there are no compelling constitutional arguments to warrant a Con Con. Therefore, maintaining the current state of the Hawaii State Constitution is the way to ensure that the essence of Hawaii is preserved — people matter.
Do you support Oahu’s planned rail-transit system? Please explain.
I support Oahu’s planned rail-transit system. In my opinion, alternative means of commuter-transportation is essential in growing and expanding cities. More importantly, as it relates to Honolulu, our transportation infrastructure is soon to be at its capacity; therefore, validating the need for alternative commuter-ground transportation.
What can the Legislature do to improve Hawaii’s public education?
Hawaii’s state Legislature must continue to fund DOE/BOE approved early childhood education, after-school enrichment, primary and secondary education, and higher education preparation programs and resources. In addition, funding for public education infrastructure is a must. As representative of HD44, I will support such measures.
Tercia Ku
Republican
Age: 50
Job: Policy/funding specialist, Health Dept.
Past: Medical/ clinical research specialist; legislative office manager
What qualifies you to be a state representative?
I am a United States citizen over 18 years of age who has been a resident of the Leeward side for more than a dozen consecutive years – these are the basic qualifications required. What qualifies me is the willingness to serve my community and my heartfelt desire to make a positive difference, thereby providing the best place for our children to live with a bright and promising future.
What is one thing you would do in office to improve the local economy?
I would introduce legislation to reduce taxes, or at the very least look at returning more tax monies to the people. Statistics have shown that when people have more money they spend that money for goods and services which in the end improves the local economy. Government has never been efficient in its services so I would look at how we can improve our services — perhaps public/private partnerships.
Do you support convening a Constitutional Convention? Please explain.
Yes, it’s been 30 years since the last Con Con — it’s just time for another.
Do you support Oahu’s planned rail-transit system? Please explain.
No, the fact that this expensive system will not improve traffic from the west side means that the monies being spent are a poor investment toward alleviating the problem.
What can the Legislature do to improve Hawaii’s public education?
All legislators should commit to sending their own children to public schools. This would provide a better understanding of the system and having this investment would be more than a passing concern but one of great personal interest. It’s about living the problem and finding ways to improve the system of education that is provided to the public.
DID NOT RESPOND
DIST. 44: Karen Awana (D)
