Jason Bradshaw

Party: Democratic

Age: 28

Job: Political Director, Hawaii State AFL-CIO

Born in Hawaii. In Hawaii from birth

Contact: 808 253-1892, jasonbradshaw2010@gmail.com

Web site: jasonbradshawforewa.com

Job history past 10 years:
Staff, U.S. Senate Commerce Committee, Office of Senator Daniel K. Inouye; Legislative Aide, State House of Representatives; Staff Intern, Office of Senator Daniel K. Akaka.

Ever run for public office? When? Outcome?
N/A

Other civic experience or community service:
Volunteer, Aloha United Way; Volunteer, Hawaii Food Bank; Volunteer, Keiki ID Program; Volunteer, Great Aloha Run.

Anything else you'd like voters to know about you?
Happily married to Michelle Bradshaw.

1) What qualifies you to be a member of the state House?
Worked for Senator Inouye, Akaka and at the state legislature. Obtained my bachelor's degree in political science at Northern Arizona University.

2) What do you feel is the biggest problem facing your district and what would you do about it?
Economy. I will seek solutions that will bring back consumer confidence and create jobs that put our residents back to work. I support local jobs for local people and will fight for legislation that protects our working families, and small businesses. Also, a strong economy will not be possible without a high quality public education system. This is the best investment for our future.

3) How would you have voted on House Bill 444, the civil unions bill? Explain.
I believe in healthy public debate and transparency on all issues. I can understand why people were upset with the way the civil unions bill was handled with its last minute political stunts. I also believe in fairness and equality for all. There needs to be respect and compromise and decisions must be made that respects the religious community and the state constitution.

4) How can the state help the city address the problem of homelessness?
We need to provide more affordable housing. We have one of the most expensive housing markets in the country and as a result, many are unable to obtain home ownership or even afford rent. This must change. The state must also work collaboratively with the city to ensure everyone is on the same page when it comes to addressing our homeless problem.

5) What is your stance on increasing the general excise tax to balance the budget and/or fund needed programs?
As a representative, I will always remember that taxes come from every day working families. An increase in the GET should only be considered as a last resort. We should look at making government more efficient and closing tax loopholes before considering any increase in taxes.

6) What is your stance on gambling?
I am open to various forms of revenue enhancement. I am aware of the potential social consequences that could arise with legalized gambling and therefore would approach gaming with caution.