2018 Primary Election Candidates

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PAIK-MANDER, Koohan
Name on ballot:

PAIK-MANDER, Koohan

Running for:

State House

District (if applicable):

1

Political party:

Democrat

Campaign website:

koohan4staterep.com

Current occupation:

Director of Development, Hawaii Alliance for Progr

Age:

57

Previous job history:

• 7/2017 – present: Director of Development, Hawaii Alliance for Progressive Action (HAPA)
• 10/2011 – 7/2017: Campaign Director for Asia-Pacific Program, International Forum on Globalization
• 1/2010 – 1/2012: Lecture

Previous elected office, if any:

None

What qualifies you to represent the people of Hawaii?

I’ve lived in Hawaii for over 25 years and worked in positions (as an educator, journalist, activist) that all sought the improvement of the lives and land of our State. My family members served their communities and instilled in me a deep sense of public service and fairness. I care deeply about the future of our ohana, our Island, our State, and our planet, and am willing to eschew corporate donations and influences of special interests to do what’s pono.

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

Environment, equitable economy, and education. I put environment first because on the Big Island we all have to work together to restore the many lives changed by the lava eruptions, to examine policies, and to build a sustainable future. Our District’s economy is based on agriculture and farmers need a voice in our State government and an advocate who supports building an equitable agricultural economy in Hamakua that respects community and environment. We need to grow local jobs that support families and protect, as well as share, our land’s abundance, not jump at offers from mainland developers that exploit the land, import employees, and fail to contribute their fair share in taxes. I support instituting educational programs that offer stipends to UH students earning an Agroecology degree, based on the successful model at UH West Oahu, and developing a college-town “economy of the mind” in Hilo with cultural venues and public space.

If elected, what will be your highest legislative priority?

Ensuring that the revenues earned by our District and County are returned to us and that all State legislation and planning serves the best interests of Hawaii Island.

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

Listen to them to understand their needs, hopes, and obstacles, and get to work addressing those through legislation and other means available through my elected position.

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

I keep my eyes and ears open and I am not beholden to corporate interests, nor am I bamboozled by their donations, technology, development, or other sales pitches that do not lead us toward a better future for our ohana, keiki, kupuna or aina.

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