• Criticism of Governor was unwarranted Criticism of Governor was unwarranted So the Democrats think the Governor’s first year in office was more public relations than substance. The Governor’s response to these petty comments was right on. Such criticisms are
• Criticism of Governor was unwarranted
Criticism of Governor was unwarranted
So the Democrats think the Governor’s first year in office was more public relations than substance. The Governor’s response to these petty comments was right on. Such criticisms are really compliments to what she has achieved during her first year in office.
Gov. Lingle is the most visible and straightforward leader we’ve had in a long time. Unlike her predecessors, this Governor understands that she works for the people of the state, and thus is making every effort to go out into the community to interact with the public and to listen to their concerns. This Governor realizes that two-way communication is part of being an effective leader. This Governor is intent on letting the people know what they’re getting for their tax dollars.
Rather than dictate bureaucratic policy, Governor Lingle takes the time to solicit input from all sectors, including the many who have felt disenfranchised in years past. This Governor looks at all sides of an issue, and isn’t afraid to modify her position when new information comes to light that would result in a better outcome for the State as a whole.
As someone who was born and raised in Hawai`i, I find it refreshing that it’s not just the Governor who is communicating with the people, her entire administration has an open-door policy. In just the one year since taking office, the Lingle-Aiona administration has been more transparent and open than any other I can recall. When was the last time you saw a Governor and Lt. Governor holding community meetings to hear what’s on the minds of people across the state? When was the last time you saw a department director, let alone an entire cabinet, in the community answering questions and responding to residents’ complaints?
It’s clear that the Governor’s genuine efforts to communicate with the public have struck a cord among the old-boy network. That’s likely because they never believed in keeping the public informed of their back-room antics, and as a result, they’re realizing that no one’s listening to them.
Our state is now benefiting from an administration, led by Governor Linda Lingle and Lt. Governor Duke Aiona, that actually communicates with and is responsive to all the people. What a novel idea.
Rhonda Funn
Nu‘uanu
