House District 1 faces several significant challenges that impact the lives of its residents. Among the most pressing issues are the lack of good-paying jobs, limited economic opportunities, and the need for sustainable infrastructure development. Residents in these communities are often faced with lower wages and limited access to resources that can help them improve their economic standing. Many of these communities also face unique struggles with connectivity, including poor access to wireless and broadband services, which further limits their potential for growth and economic development.

Ensuring Community Safety and Well-Being: One of my top priorities is to protect the health and safety of Hawaii’s residents. In a district like ours, where natural disasters such as volcanic eruptions and hurricanes are a reality, preparedness and resilience are key. I will work to ensure that emergency services are adequately supported and that our communities have access to the resources they need to stay safe during times of crisis. This includes investing in disaster preparedness programs and strengthening local health infrastructure.

Building Resilience and Sustainability: Our district is heavily reliant on local agriculture and natural resources, making it critical that we work to protect and preserve these vital assets. As we move forward, we must prioritize sustainability in agriculture and environmental conservation. I will work to support local farmers and ranchers, promoting agricultural initiatives that focus on sustainability and local food security. This includes advocating for the preservation of farmland and supporting policies that protect our precious natural resources, such as water and soil health.

Connecting and Empowering Communities: One of the major barriers to growth in rural communities is a lack of access to high-speed internet and modern telecommunications. In an era where much of the world is connected digitally, this is a significant disadvantage for our students, businesses, and residents. I will work tirelessly to bring better wireless connectivity and expand broadband infrastructure to rural areas within our district. Expanding connectivity will help bridge the digital divide, enabling businesses to thrive, students to succeed, and families to access essential services.

Addressing Economic Challenges and Diversification: The lack of good-paying jobs is a significant concern in our district, particularly for younger residents and families who may be forced to move to other islands or the mainland for work. I believe that creating new job opportunities through economic diversification is key to addressing this issue. One area where we can focus our efforts is in developing industries related to green technology, sustainable agriculture, and renewable energy. As an advocate for workforce development, I would support programs that provide job training, requalification, and skills development to equip residents for these emerging industries.

Additionally, I see an opportunity in supporting small businesses and local entrepreneurs, who are the backbone of our economy. Encouraging the growth of small businesses through tax incentives and access to funding can help stimulate economic activity and create jobs in the district. I will also focus on the importance of exporting local goods, which can provide a new revenue stream and help reduce our dependency on imports.

Meeting the Needs of Our Community: The state’s infrastructure is in dire need of attention. Roads, bridges, and public parks are not receiving the resources they need to stay safe and accessible. In many rural areas, these vital infrastructure projects are either delayed or underfunded, which impacts the daily lives of residents. I will advocate for increased investment in maintaining and upgrading our local infrastructure to ensure that roads, bridges, and public spaces are safe for all.

Promoting Government Accountability: As a public servant, I believe it is essential to ensure that government operates transparently and that taxpayer dollars are being spent efficiently. I will work to ensure that our state’s budget is balanced in a way that prioritizes essential services without overspending. I am committed to working with my colleagues in the legislature to review the budget carefully, ensuring that we protect vital programs such as healthcare, education, and public safety, while also identifying areas for potential cost savings.

Supporting Police Accountability and Reform: Regarding the issue of police accountability, Hawaii has a strong tradition of aloha, and our diversity has historically fostered an environment of mutual respect and understanding. However, like many other places, we must remain vigilant in ensuring that our law enforcement agencies uphold the highest standards of conduct. I support efforts to expand transparency and accountability within our police forces, including the public disclosure of misconduct records and supporting law enforcement oversight bodies. We must continue to work toward creating a more just and equitable society, while also ensuring that our police officers have the necessary training and resources to serve our communities effectively.

Preparing for Climate Change and Environmental Protection: Climate change poses an undeniable threat to our state, with rising sea levels and damage to our reefs being particularly concerning for many communities in my district. I am committed to working with environmental experts to address the challenges of climate change, including advocating for more sustainable development practices and policies that protect our natural environment. I will push for stricter scrutiny of development projects, especially those involving seawalls and coastal construction, to ensure that they do not further damage our environment. The long-term health of our state’s ecosystems is critical to our economy, and we must take proactive steps to safeguard them.

Conclusion: The most pressing issue facing House District 1 is the lack of economic opportunities, particularly for residents in rural areas. The challenges of low wages, limited job opportunities, and inadequate infrastructure are compounded by the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation. To address these issues, I will focus on creating economic opportunities through workforce development, expanding connectivity, supporting local agriculture, and promoting sustainable industries. I will also advocate for the better management of government resources, ensuring that taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and that public services are delivered efficiently. By working collaboratively with our communities, we can overcome these challenges and build a stronger, more resilient future for Hawaii.

If appointed, I will remain committed to listening to the voices of my community, acting with transparency, and ensuring that the needs of House District 1 are met with urgency and dedication. Together, we can work toward a future where all of our residents have access to the opportunities they need to thrive. Mahalo for the opportunity to serve.