04-13-2009, 03:51 AM
Daniel, The best info I can offer on an opposing view is in the Tribune article in which J. Yoshimoto, council chairman, says:
"We must ask ourselves this simple question: Do we really want to use Hawaii taxpayer funds to give people money to run for political office," asked Council Chairman J Yoshimoto. "As a taxpayer, I would be extremely unhappy with our precious tax dollars spent by a candidate that I may not support."
As an incumbent councilman I might assume the chairman has a personal interest in funding for any challengers for his seat... and will wonder if he will be voting for a personal interest or a public interest. I might try to talk with him about it if possible.
On the other hand there is a lot of concern about off island money, often from developers, flooding local campaigns and perhaps exerting undue influence on our island. Clean Elections is a pilot program to attempt to offset that.
I will point out here that to qualify for campaign funds one will need 200 verified signatures from local voters and then be willing to not accept private money.
"We must ask ourselves this simple question: Do we really want to use Hawaii taxpayer funds to give people money to run for political office," asked Council Chairman J Yoshimoto. "As a taxpayer, I would be extremely unhappy with our precious tax dollars spent by a candidate that I may not support."
As an incumbent councilman I might assume the chairman has a personal interest in funding for any challengers for his seat... and will wonder if he will be voting for a personal interest or a public interest. I might try to talk with him about it if possible.
On the other hand there is a lot of concern about off island money, often from developers, flooding local campaigns and perhaps exerting undue influence on our island. Clean Elections is a pilot program to attempt to offset that.
I will point out here that to qualify for campaign funds one will need 200 verified signatures from local voters and then be willing to not accept private money.
Assume the best and ask questions.
Punaweb moderator
Punaweb moderator