But President Trump calls passage of the Tax Cut and Jobs Act “a big, beautiful tax cut for Christmas.”

If power struggles within the Democratic and Republican parties nationally are transplanted to the islands, all bets are off.

The Hawaii House minority leader is expected to formally announce her candidacy in November.

The congresswoman files papers to form a campaign committee. Meanwhile, state senators Will Espero and Josh Green are running for lieutenant government.

The congresswoman also supports an audit of Honolulu’s rail agency, saying the early years of the project have not been adequately scrutinized.

The latest federal campaign finance reports indicate very different strategies by Hawaii’s congresswomen, and reinforce the notion Hanabusa may run for governor.

The proposed reauthorization of a housing bill leaves out annual funding of up to $13 million for Native Hawaiians.

Stressing how an island state is particularly vulnerable, elected leaders and environmentalists resolved to continue local efforts.

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard has amassed $2 million, while Rep. Colleen Hanabusa has about an eighth of that.

More ships stationed in the islands could provide an economic boost — including high-paying jobs — for decades to come.

The state’s congressional delegation opposed the Trans-Pacific Partnership, but the state Chamber of Commerce expressed concerns.