Candidate for Hawaii State Senate District 19 (Pearl City, Waipahu, West Loch, Honouliuli, Ho‘opili)
Q: What first attracted you to the world of politics and elections?
A: My interest in public service began long before I decided to run for office. As a physician, I have cared for thousands of patients and witnessed firsthand how decisions made at the Capitol affect people’s health, finances and quality of life. I realized that treating one patient at a time is important, but good policy can improve the lives of entire communities.
Throughout my career, I have served in healthcare leadership roles, testified on numerous bills at the Hawaii Legislature, written policy articles and worked with community organizations to advocate for better healthcare, affordable housing and government accountability. Those experiences showed me that I could contribute beyond the exam room.
I decided to run because I believe our community deserves experienced, ethical and independent leadership focused on solving real problems—not politics as usual. I am running to bring practical, evidence-based solutions and a lifetime of public service to the Hawaii State Senate.
Q: In what ways has your medical background helped your campaign?
A: My decades as a physician have taught me to listen carefully, solve problems based on evidence and put people first. Caring for patients has given me firsthand insight into the challenges families face. That experience shapes my campaign and my commitment to practical, compassionate and accountable leadership that delivers real results.
Q: You have run before unsuccessfully. What have you learned from past campaigning efforts that will help you this time around?
A: Elections are about earning trust through personal connections, listening and showing up consistently. This time, I’ve gone door-to-door, meeting voters face-to-face and hearing their concerns firsthand. I’ve built a stronger grassroots campaign, expanded community relationships and sharpened my message around lowering the cost of living, protecting healthcare access, increasing affordable housing and restoring trust in government. I’m a better listener, a better communicator and a stronger candidate because of those experiences.
Q: What are the three most pressing problems facing our state? What are your solutions to these problems?
A: I believe three issues deserve immediate attention: the high cost of living, access to healthcare and government accountability.
First, the high cost of living is forcing families, young professionals and even lifelong residents to leave Hawaii. We need to increase affordable and workforce housing, streamline permitting, strengthen local food production, reduce unnecessary regulations that increase costs and provide targeted tax relief for working families and kūpuna.
Second, access to quality healthcare must improve. As a physician, I have seen firsthand the shortage of primary care providers, long wait times and rising prescription drug costs. I will work to strengthen the healthcare workforce, expand preventive care and telehealth, improve access to mental health services and make medications more affordable.
Third, government must deliver better results. Taxpayers deserve efficient, transparent and accountable government. I support reducing unnecessary bureaucracy, improving oversight of public spending, establishing measurable performance standards for state programs and ensuring government responds more quickly to community needs.
Q: What will it take for your campaign to win the Democratic Primary on August 8?
A: Our campaign will succeed by earning voters’ trust through hard work, direct engagement and practical solutions to the challenges they face every day.
Voters are looking for experienced, solution-oriented leadership. As a physician, I have spent my career listening, diagnosing problems and developing practical, evidence-based solutions. I have also participated in the legislative process by submitting testimony on nearly 30 bills and recommending practical amendments to strengthen public policy. That experience has given me valuable insight into how to work collaboratively to achieve meaningful results.
If we continue earning voters’ trust, sharing our vision and encouraging people to vote, I am confident we can earn the privilege of serving the people of Senate District 19 and help build a more affordable, healthier and stronger Hawaii.
Q: In your opinion, are the people of Hawaiʻi better or worse off than before?
A: I believe too many Hawaii residents are worse off today because the cost of living remains high and many families are struggling to afford housing, food, healthcare and other basic necessities. As a physician, I have cared for patients forced to choose between paying for medications, buying healthy food or covering rent and utility bills. Hawaii needs leaders who stay focused on the real pressures facing working families and who are willing to fight for practical solutions here at home.
Q: What does the State Legislature need to do for the next four years and beyond to improve?
A: The Legislature must focus on delivering measurable results rather than simply passing more bills. We need stronger oversight of state programs so the public can see real results from their investments. At the same time, we must invest in Hawaii’s long-term future by diversifying our economy, supporting innovation and creating opportunities that encourage our young people to build their careers and raise their families here at home.
Hawaii’s challenges are too important for partisan politics. We need collaboration, accountability and a long-term vision that keeps local families, seniors and future generations at the center of every decision.
Q: Voter turnout in the 2024 Hawaiʻi Primary was the lowest since statehood at 32 percent. What do you think is the cause of voter apathy? What is your solution to get more voters involved in the election process?
A: Low voter turnout is often a sign that people have lost confidence that government is listening or that their vote will make a difference. Many Hawaii residents are frustrated. When people do not see meaningful progress on the issues that affect their daily lives, they are less likely to participate in elections.
We need to communicate with constituents year-round—not just during election seasons—through regular town halls, neighborhood visits and transparent updates on legislation and government spending. We should also strengthen civic education so young people understand the importance of voting, public service and staying engaged in their communities.
If elected, I will continue to engage directly with residents through regular community meetings and open communication—not just during election season. When people see their voices heard and their concerns reflected in public policy, trust grows, confidence in government is restored and voter participation will follow.
Q: Specifically, why should the Filipino community support your candidacy?
A: I have long been involved in the Filipino community through medical missions, community organizations, cultural events and healthcare service. My connections to the community come from years of friendship, service and shared experiences. I deeply value Filipino culture, traditions and the strong emphasis on family, education, faith and community service.
Q: For those interested in joining your campaign, how can they contact you?
A: Contact us through our campaign website, social media pages, email or by phone. Every volunteer and every contribution of time helps us reach more voters, and we would be honored to have you join our campaign.
(This article is a paid advertisement by the Friends of Inam Rahman, P.O. Box 971749, Waipahu, HI 96797.)
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