Mixed feelings on election

LIHUE — With Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump the presumptive presidential nominees for the Democratic and Republican parties, many voters on Kauai have mixed feelings on who they’re supporting to be the next president of the United States.

“I’m probably going to vote democratic,” said Sandra Stuart- Williams of Lihue.

However, the Lihue resident, like some, would rather vote for Democratic nominee Bernie Sanders.

“Bernie Sanders is an option, too, (but), I don’t think he’s gonna make it to the Democratic National Convention,” she said.

With the Democratic nomination a near clinch for Clinton, President Barack Obama recently endorsed her for the nomination and also “embraced” Sanders’ economic message, which has fired up much of the liberal wing of his party.

There are those on the island who feel the Grand Old Party’s presumptive nominee may get the job done.

“I don’t know why people are going to hate on somebody who had been a successful person,” said Mark Mitsis of Koloa. “I don’t think he’d be that bad of a president, to be honest.”

William A Kerbawy of Lihue is all for the New York businessman.

“He speaks his mind — straight up front. That’s what people like about him,” Kerbawy said. “I think he cares. He put his money where his mouth is.”

Healani Sagisi of Kapaa is also for the presumptive Republican presidential nominee.

“I would pick Trump because he’s pursuing a new lead for the country,” she said. “He would be the best bet.”

Others feel Trump may incite change.

“I feel like Trump might do more change with his policies,” said Isaac Hamrick of Puhi. “He might be more unique and innovative than just the same old stuff.”

John Healy of Poipu is pulling for Clinton.

“Her views and our views mesh very nicely,” Healy said. “She’s an experienced person. Hillary is our girl.”

Corey Toa of Kekaha agrees.

“I would support Hillary Clinton because I think she can do a good job,” he said.

Mason Koetje also of Kekaha normally supports the Grand Old Party, but may vote blue come November.

“When push comes to shove, you need a politician in a politician’s role, so I guess I would have to vote for Hillary.”

H.K. Pang of Honolulu believes Clinton is “more oriented toward the working man.”

“That means a lot to me. We as blue collar workers and as middle income people, I think she has more an idea of the direction we have to go on to keep the economy going,” he said.

Sanders still has supporters holding out for him.

“I think there needs to be some big changes to happen in the government, and I like what he’s said so far,” said Chris Holmes of Lihue.

Shaina Nacion of Eleele plans to vote Sanders regardless of the outcome.

“I don’t think he’s actually got a realistic shot, but with someone as radical as him, I think it’s important to vote for him despite the outcome,” she said. “Even if he doesn’t get the presidency, at least it sends a message.”

There are those whose picks aren’t concrete.

“I’m leaning toward Hillary Clinton — she’s on top of my list — but I’m waiting closer to the actual election, so things might change,” said Marlene Burgess of Kalaheo.

Sydney Cervantes of Lihue leans Democrat.

“Bernie seems like the better politician and he wants more for the government and for the United States,” she said. “As me going into college soon, I would rather get free college than have to pay a lot of money.”