LIHU‘E — Rep. Neil Abercrombie launched a two-day campaign tour of the Neighbor Islands on Sunday, saying the 2010 race for governor will be decided by voters outside urban O‘ahu. After a supporter breakfast in Honolulu, the 10-term Hawai‘i Democrat
LIHU‘E — Rep. Neil Abercrombie launched a two-day campaign tour of the Neighbor Islands on Sunday, saying the 2010 race for governor will be decided by voters outside urban O‘ahu.
After a supporter breakfast in Honolulu, the 10-term Hawai‘i Democrat told about 50 supporters at Maui’s Kanaha Beach Park Sunday that his campaign will emphasize issues of concern to the Neighbor Islands.
Abercrombie then flew to Kaua‘i for an evening campaign kickoff at HGEA Union Hall in Lihu‘e.
He says these issues of concern to the Neighbor Islands include a more equitable distribution of state funds among the islands, a cleaner environment and energy independence.
“During these challenging times, we need strong political leadership that will bring people together to create a far-reaching vision for Hawai‘i’s future,” Abercrombie said in a statement Sunday.
As one of the first members of Congress to support Barack Obama for president, and honorary chairman of Hawai‘i’s Obama campaign, Abercrombie said he is bringing the Obama message of hope and change to Hawai‘i.
“I saw how we could run a different kind of campaign that involved and inspired people and ultimately brought change to the nation,” he said. “Now, we must do the same for Hawai‘i.”
Abercrombie said he plans to seek advice from experienced practitioners and fresh new thinkers to develop policies that address critical needs in Hawai‘i today.
He said his 30 years in elective office includes experience as a Honolulu city council member, state representative and state senator, and U.S. congressman. He noted that his relationships with the president and lawmakers at all levels of government will serve the people of Hawai‘i well.
“Running for governor is the culmination of a lifetime of public service,” Abercrombie said. “People feel let down by government. They don’t want government to do everything. But they do want it to do what it is supposed to do and do it well. The Office of Governor is not a stepping stone for me. To me, the governor is the cornerstone for Hawai‘i’s future. I can leverage my experience and relationships in Washington, D.C. and use them for Hawai‘i’s benefit.”
Abercrombie heads to the Big Island on Monday.
Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann and Senate President Colleen Hanabusa also are potential Democratic candidates.
Lt. Gov. James R. “Duke” Aiona is the lone major Republican contender so far.
He released a statement Sunday evening in response to Abercrombie’s official announcement to campaign for governor in 2010.
“I appreciate the congressman’s service, but he has been in Washington, D.C., a long time,” Aiona said.
“The people of Hawai‘i want more than insider politics and policies that cater to special interests. They want a transparent, accountable and fiscally prudent government that helps Hawai‘i’s working families — not burden them with higher taxes and more debt.”
Aiona said he would put Hawai‘i’s working families front and center in this debate.
“I will continue to move Hawai‘i forward to make Hawai‘i energy-secure, diversify our economy, lower taxes and fees for Hawai‘i’s families and businesses and keep our neighborhoods safe,” he said in the statement.
For more information, visit www.neilabercrombie.com or www.dukeaiona.com.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
