The primary election is on August 8th, and it’s important to cast your vote once again. Ballots should be received in the mail this month, and if one needs more information about voting, visit www.honoluluelections.us.
Despite Donald Trump’s threats against mail-in voting, there should be no problem voting by mail in Hawaii. Trump’s arguments against mail-in voting have no merit, and there is no evidence anywhere in the United States of widespread voter fraud or abuse by mail.
Donald Trump has a reputation for lying and twisting the truth, and his comments about mail-in voting are not substantiated or proven. Mail-in voting is the easiest way to vote from home, and voters should take advantage of this service to avoid going to a polling place and standing in line. At home, voters will have time to research candidates, analyze their positions, and see where candidates stand on the issues.
This year, with Sylvia Luke not running for re-election for Lieutenant Governor (LG), a new LG will be on the ballot with Governor Green for the Democrats. This is probably the most interesting race in the primary, and Kauai Mayor Derek Kawakami and State Representative Della Bellati are two names most Democratic voters will recognize.
I served with both of them in the Hawaii State Legislature, and I believe both are capable of replacing Luke. They have the experience and knowledge to serve, and in my opinion, either one would do a commendable job.
There are other Democratic candidates on the ballot if Bellati or Kawakami don’t excite you.
Congressman Ed Case is being challenged in another primary race by Hawaii State Senator Jarret Keohokalole for the first congressional seat, and this race has received some national attention in the media. Case is a well-known moderate lawmaker compared to Keohokalole, who is a young, articulate senator who is not afraid to address tough issues.
Case has more name recognition than Keohokalole and has decided not to publicly debate Keohokalole.
If one wants to get more involved in the elections this year, consider volunteering to help a candidate or two if time permits. As one who has been in many campaigns, I can tell you that candidates are very appreciative of those who help and assist.
Walking door to door or holding signs is one way to get outdoors and be engaged. Preparing mailers, calling voters, sending emails, creating brochures, and having a coffee hour are ways to help if one wants to stay indoors.
If none of these options seem viable or possible, contributing with a campaign donation is always valued and beneficial to the candidate. Individual donations help to get the candidate’s message out as paid advertising and postage costs are huge expenses in most campaign efforts.
Be advised that traditional polling places from the past will not be available as they were before. Mail-in voting is ideal, simple, and easy and should be utilized.
If one must go to a polling place, Honolulu Hale and Kapolei Hale will be open and available on Oahu. Check the election website for other possible locations.
Voting is a privilege all U.S. citizens must take seriously. Every vote counts; your vote is important.
As Filipino-Americans, we must participate in the electoral process and select the candidates who we believe are best for our state, our families, and our future.
To not vote is to let other people decide your fate and the fate of your community. Don’t just stand on the sidelines and complain. Be proactive and actively engage in the freedoms and rights our nation is known for.
Your vote is your voice. Be loud, be involved, and make a difference.
WILL ESPERO retired from the Hawaii Legislature after serving 19 years in the state House of Representatives and state Senate. He is currently a novelist, poet, and supporter of the arts. Lingering Thoughts provides a glimpse of his perspective on current events and issues.
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