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Zip Code is a red herring.
Big Island Union contributions are sent from a central office in Honolulu, but they represent Big Island workers.
An Obfuscation:
"Ruderman (for period 2012 - 2016)
In District 40.37%"
And how much of that was from one rich donor?
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Not very much.
that 40% was about $3,200, and the largest contribution was $500, and only three of those out of 42 total donations.
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Well yes it is very much.
If you include the $17,713.75 in forgiven loans from himself, and now another $25,00 for this election it is indeed VERY MUCH.
You may or may not have a problem with rich guys buying elections. However adding those tens of thousands of dollars into a pot and proclaiming they are local "donations" is disingenuous even corrupt perhaps.
At least Trump is honest about buying the nomination.
I have changed my mind I wouldn't vote for him for mayor either.
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Lies, damn lies, statistics.
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quote:
Originally posted by BillyB
forgiven loans
Where, specifically, did you find information on "forgiven loan" -- the campaign spending website has a lot of information and I have not found that.
Thanks.
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My take so far:
At this very important juncture of the summer campaign season, I am going to give the edge to Russell. Anything can happen in the months to come, but for now, I give Russell a bit of an edge in understanding the issues and connecting these issues to his Puna constituents. Incumbency certainly allows for he to provide more accurate details and information. HOWEVER.....
If it were truly about details and information, then perhaps the election is a slam dunk for Russell. While details and accomplishments certainly bode well for the campaign literature and forums, the real lesson of the game is simply about getting votes. America (and Puna) have proven time and time again that voters vote for many different, albeit suspect reasons. Greggor is a relentless campaigner. He has a loyal (young) base and continues to grow it daily. In short, Greggor knows how to get votes. I will not count him out for a second. Although I wish sometimes that his robot-esque tone of delivery would match the enthusiasm of his morning shaka campaigns, I believe his style and actual approach to people and things have been much better than previous councilors from Puna. Further, he has made no qualms in admitting to Puna's political capitol/future being in the hands of the Senate President and a few key legislators. He admits to being "in" with the boys. He makes no bones about it. Although he does put a Greggorian spin to it.
So the choice is clear Puna: Vote Russell, the Anti-establishment, rich, liberal, People's park, Ben and Jerry's candidate -- and embrace status quo of Puna being on the outside looking in. OR, Vote Greggor and get "in" with the boys....the power structure of the legislature -- "local" legislative power and influence not seen since the likes of the notorious Faye Hanohano. Highway and school funds for everyone! (attempt at humor. No, I did not fact check Faye Hanohano's penchant for securing neither Highway or Education funding for Puna).
If Russell is reelected, he enters a new phase of influence and acceptance amongst his legislative peers. A second..third...fourth term could be very beneficial to Puna. So long as he stays the course and plays politics. Years on board can mean a lot in Hawaii's politics. You win some, you lose more. And that is Puna.
The choice is yours. Get out and vote.
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At the outset, I don't know much about either candidate personally. I met Mr. Ruderman just to say hello, and I've watched a few county council meetings on tv. I did vote for Mr. Ilagan the first time he ran, but have not been impressed. He comes across as wanting to be a career politician without much real world experience. I've grown really tired of people like that. I don't want a novice in office to be "molded" by other career politicians that have formed power blocks that can change easily from ins to outs, and since I agree more with Mr. Ruderman's stance on issues I will be voting for him.
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Russell purely needs to step up his vote getting game! Greggor is a relentless campaigner. Russell has a Filipino wife, plays music, and employs many many folks on the island. He needs to play that card a bit stronger. What does that have to do with the ideals of the office? Not much. But it gets votes. Russell needs to be reminded that the person with the most votes wins! C'mon Russ. Greggor is throwing jabs and punches and racking up points (votes) along the way. The video showing at the HAAS forum was a nice counter punch for Russell however, as he was on point with his answers and in my opinion, pretty much "won" the forum. He needs to be careful with the attacks on Greggor. The "pity" vote on the island can be quite crucial in these close races. I'd still attack greggor's record if you will, but I'd be much more careful about it. I'd let my notable/influential constituents attack Greggor. And these constituents should be local/Filipino. Yes, that is how the brutal campaign game works. Russell certainly proves that issue for issue, experience for experience -- Greggor does not equate. But as for getting votes, Greggor is chugging right along.... Take note Russell. Or the young boy will knock you out. Protect yourself at all times! ding ding!
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Does anyone know where Greggor is from (born/raised)?
I know the old dude that sells extremely expensive tortilla chips to hippies is from Philly, anyone know about Greggor? (does not strike me as a Puna Filipino, respectfully)
