2018 Primary Election Candidates

Click to select a candidate

Name on ballot:

NISHIHARA, Clarence

Running for:

State Senate

District (if applicable):

Political party:

Democrat

Campaign website:

clarencenishihara.com

Current occupation:

State Senator, District 17 since 2004

Age:

Previous job history:

Vice Principal, August Ahrens Elementary (1994-2002)
Vice Principal, Waianae High School (1992-1994)
Special Education Teacher, Dept. of Education (1972-1992)

Previous elected office, if any:

None

What qualifies you to represent the people of Hawaii?

I was previously in the public school system, both as a teacher and later as an administrator. This gives me insight into our public school system. I have also held chairmanship of the Senate Tourism Committee; Senate Transportation Committee; Senate Agriculture Committee; and currently serve as chair of the Senate Public Safety, Intergovernmental and Military Affairs Committee, all of which are important to our state's economy as well as the safety of the public.

What are the top three challenges facing the voters you seek to represent?

1. Affordable housing and affordable rentals.
2. Traffic problems caused by highway maintenance scheduling and road closures.
3. High cost of healthcare and elderly care.

If elected, what will be your highest legislative priority?

I currently chair the Senate Public Safety, Intergovernmental and Military Affairs Committee. My highest legislative priority will be to introduce legislation to reform Hawaii's criminal justice system, seeking a fairer and more responsive system of justice without jeopardizing the safety of the public.

If elected, what can you do to improve the lives of your constituents?

I will support legislation that reduces the high cost of college tuition to make it more affordable for students and adults who are seeking degrees or certifications to better their lives. I will also support funding for our public schools and will continue to work on criminal justice reforms to make our communities safer and minimize damage to families of those incarcerated. I will also propose legislation that helps to reduce the economic burden on our kupuna and the financial burden to those requiring elderly care.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about you?

I am a veteran; served with the U.S. Army, Security Agency (1964-1967).
Married for 46 years to wife Lynn, with 2 daughters and 4 grandchildren.
I have always conducted my life in an ethical manner, with honesty and integrity.