Trending
David Ige for Governor
Gov. David Ige has proved to be an astonishing overperformer in statewide races. Four years ago, he ousted then-Gov. Neil Abercrombie in a primary challenge and then went on to beat Republican James Aiona and Independent Mufi Hannemann in the general election. In fact, he almost got more votes than all his opponents combined (Libertarian Jeff Davis was also in the race) in the general election. Ige deserves another term.
Josh Green for Lieutenant Governor
As we stated before the primary election, we have an ulterior motive for supporting the Big Island doctor -- we'd like to see whoever is elected governor appoint Green to head up a task force for recruiting and retaining doctors for Hawaii. It is a particularly vexing problem for the Neighbor Islands and Dr. Green is uniquely suited to lead the way to a solution.
Mazie Hirono for U.S. Senate
Although some of our readers have scolded her for her tone in recent statements about the Brett Kavanaugh Supreme Court nomination and the #MeToo movement, we appreciate her forthrightness. She is also increasingly viewed as an expert in Washington -- television news networks seek her opinions on a wide variety of topics. She is a good senator -- and a fine person.
Others deserving support
As we have noted in past elections, West Maui has a good team in the state Legislature with Sen. Roz Baker (Senate District 6, West and South Maui) and Rep. Angus McKelvey (House District 10 West Maui, Maalaea and north Kihei). They not only work well collaboratively, but they also do an excellent job keeping their constituents informed about what is happening in the Legislature. These two deserve your vote.
Sen. Baker, of course, also represents South Maui. There, we think she may be able to find a partner like McKelvey in Tina Wildberger. Wildberger is running unopposed for the House District 11 seat vacated by Kaniela Ing.
There are others who do a good job serving on Maui's state legislative team. Among those we'd recommend are:
Senate District 7 (East Maui, Upcountry, Molokai and Lanai) -- J. Kalani English (unopposed).
House District 9 (Kahului, Puunene, Old Sand Hills and Maui Lani) -- Justin Woodson (unopposed).
House District 12 (Upcountry, Spreckelsville and parts of Kahului -- Kyle Yamashita (unopposed).
House District 13 (East Maui, Molokai and Lanai) -- Lynn DeCoite.
* Editorials reflect the opinion of the publisher.