Hawaii Democrats rally on westside as Election Day approaches

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – Democratic leaders gathered Wednesday to rally supporters and encourage voter participation ahead of the Nov. 3 general election.

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The rally at Kapolei High School brought together party leaders and supporters to discuss issues important to voters and encourage them to return their ballots on time.

“We’re 12 days out from the election, and the country is clearly upset with what has been going on,” Gov. Josh Green said.

Hawaii Democratic leaders also reminded voters to complete their ballots and return them before the deadline.

“All you got to do is put your color that square in, sign it, get it back to the envelope and get it in on time,” Kauai Mayor Derek Kawakami said.

Political analyst Colin Moore said the Westside has been a strong area for Republicans, who performed well in the 2024 election and won several seats.

“Republicans did very well two years ago,” Moore said. “And this is one of the reasons they’re holding this rally on the west side.” State Rep. Darius Kila, a Democratic speaker at the rally, said some residents in the area feel overlooked. “It is no secret. I am the only Democrat from Makaha to Ewa, and it is a reflection of, I think, fortunately, a population that feels left behind,” Kila said.

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Some attendees said the rally gave them an opportunity to hear directly from candidates about the issues they would prioritize if elected.

Kekoa Kealoha, a Kalihi resident, said voters can sometimes base their decisions on familiarity rather than candidates’ positions on issues.

“So it’s refreshing getting to hear people and the issues important to them and how they’re going to prioritize that when they get into the Capitol,” Kealoha said.

Jamie Stidger, a Kapolei resident and retired teacher, said she wants to support candidates who have her best interests in mind.

Moore said encouraging voters to return their ballots can be more challenging when there is less attention on competitive races.

Hawaii News Now reached out to the Republican Party of Hawaii and several Republican candidates and are awaiting response.

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