State House
7
Democrat
n/a
Hawaii State Legislator
65
State Representative since 2002
N/A
I am an effective Legislator using my education and experience to listen and work on solutions that address current issues. I am a Leader. Since 2002 I have served in the Hawaii State House of Representatives with leadership roles including Chair of Committee on Public Safety and Military Affairs, Chair of Committee on on Water and Land, Majority Floor Leader, Majority Leader, Chair of Committee on Economic Development and Business and Chair of Heritage Caucus.
My background of community service includes President of Waikoloa Village Outdoor Circle, Trustee for the Historic Hawaii Foundation, Board Member of Mental Health Kokua and Board Member of Family Support Services of West Hawaii.
I am a graduate of Evergreen State College with a B.A. in Business Management.
My years of experience in customer service for AT&T and in project management for Washington State Government taught me useful skills.
1) We have concerns about our economy on Hawai'i Island. I believe there are opportunities through public and private sector collaboration to improve economic stability and respond to natural and man-made impacts. We can do more for workforce development and can diversify the economy by supporting more small businesses.
2) Children of today are our future. We must focus on education at all levels: early childhood education, k-12, and Higher Education
3) Kupuna Care. The silver tsunami is here and the percentage of our population over 60 is growing. We have a demand for policies and programs to address transportation needs, healthcare, caregiving, elder abuse, nutrition, and housing.
Improve the Economy
I will work to the best of my ability to get funds for my district, find solutions for the concerns of my constituents, address workforce development, improve the economy, and protect the environment.
As a representative from a rural district with 9+ distinct communities who have different needs, I will work with each community to get results. As one of 51 State Representatives, I will work to develop policy that improves the quality of life for all residents today and for our children's future.
I understand the urgency to bring resources and new policies that will provide safe, healthy and affordable communities. I promise to work hard to make this happen.