The Democratic Party of Hawaii has canceled its rally scheduled for Friday in Hilo at the Mooheau Bandstand.

The party has traditionally gathered at the bandstand on the nights before elections to inspire supporters to get out the vote.

Earlier today, Gov. Neil Abercrombie urged the Hilo event be canceled:

“In the interest of the safety, health and welfare of the people of Hawaii Island, I am calling upon the Democratic Party of Hawaii to cancel its Grand Rally . … I do not do so lightly; I understand fully the history and tradition of this event. However, my primary responsibility is to ensure that residents stay safe.”

Sen. David Ige and wife Dawn vote early at Honolulu Hale Tuesday.

PF Bentley/Civil Beat

Many candidates for office are suspending campaign activities and making other plans because of the approaching storms Iselle and Julio.

State Rep. Mark Takai, for example, will not hold a scheduled fundraiser tomorrow for his 1st Congressional District bid.

Another CD1 Democrat, Kathryn Xian, will be helping homeless people find shelter.

“City and County officials aren’t doing enough to protect Honolulu’s most vulnerable residents,” said Xian. “It is up to everyday citizens to protect their well-being.”

Meantime, U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, who is running for the Senate, said today in an campaign advisory, “In the interest of safety, we are asking all of our supporters to take down their Hanabusa signs and banners. High winds may be able to dislodge signs, banners, and stakes.”

She added, “Until further notice, we are canceling all of our signwavings across the islands out of respect to our volunteers and drivers who may have to navigate inclement weather.”

Hanabusa’s campaign will, however, continue phone banks calls “unless the situation worsens.”

Bill Kaneko, Abercrombie’s campaign manager, said in an email to supporters, “As we all brace for Tropical Storm Iselle, the Abercrombie for Governor campaign wants you to stay safe and vote early to avoid the storm.”

There’s still time to vote, he added: “Walk-in voting is fast and easy and open until Thursday, August 7 at 4 p.m. at select locations across the islands.”

Kaneko also said this: “If you have a yard sign, please make sure it’s secured before the storm hits.”