We all pay taxes for government services because we all benefit when they function well.

The energetic Republican candidate for Hawaii governor won’t be abandoning the party or coming home crying anytime soon.

“The most pressing issue facing my district is the availability of water for subsistence living and growing food for sustainability and food security on this island.”

“There is a level of tension that has created divisiveness between members, and their staff members. If elected, I would work toward bringing my colleagues together.”

“I would like to look into establishing a state program that would potentially forgive part or all of a primary care provider’s educational debt in exchange for practicing here in the state, especially in our rural areas, where the need is greatest.”

Hawaii powerbrokers want you to be as scared as they are by the prospect that they may give up some of their control to the people.

“Since 2010, I have been advocating … for government designated areas for the homeless to camp, as a temporary, cost-effective solution until long-term alternatives (like more affordable housing) are implemented.”

“Hilo lacks economic opportunity and many young people are moving away. We need a dramatic expansion of our early college program and CTE training at the high school level, along with strong incentives for local college grads to stay on the Big Island.”

“I always make it a point to listen to all sides of an issue before making a decision, and coming from a background in mediation I try diligently to be fair to all parties involved.”

Thanks to a 1997 Supreme Court ruling, the deck is stacked against the ConCon and the constitutional amendment for school funding.