Age: 33
Job: Small-business owner, soldier, U.S. representative
Background: Former Honolulu councilwoman; former state representative
What makes you qualified to be a U.S. representative?
I learned from a young age the importance of servant leadership and living aloha. I am confident that these guiding principles, along with my diverse experience as a small-business owner and a twice-deployed combat veteran, will enable me to continue serving the people of Hawaii well.
Should the United States recognize a Native Hawaiian government through an administrative rule rather than an act of Congress?
Native Hawaiians have waited too long for the federal recognition they deserve, as indigenous people. I will continue to work with Hawaii’s congressional delegation and community leaders to determine the best path forward and what legislation, if any, is necessary to achieve this important goal.
What changes, if any, would you make to the federal health care reform law?
We must implement common-sense fixes to ensure that the people of Hawaii have access to affordable, quality health care.
Should Hawaii be exempt from the Jones Act, the federal maritime law that protects the domestic shipping industry from foreign competition?
Maintaining a strong U.S. maritime industry is critically important for the stability of foreign and domestic commerce and the security of our nation. I do not support efforts to exempt Hawaii or undermine the protections provided by the Jones Act for national security, American workers and our environment.
Would you repeal the Common Core curriculum standards for public schools?
I’ve heard from many teachers and administrators about their concerns with Common Core and its implementation. We need to engage and support our educators on the ground to ensure that education policy gives them the flexibility, resources, and time they need to increase student achievement.
