Hannemann Files Nomination Papers



Flanked by supporters, Mufi Hannemann today formalized his candidacy for governor by filing his nomination papers at the Office of State Elections in Pearl City.

“I am very excited to take this important step,” said Hannemann.  “This is the most important election since statehood and the people of Hawaii need a candidate with the experience to turn this economy around and make improvements that have a lasting impact on future generations of Hawaii’s people.  As Mayor, I managed three-fourths of the state’s population and tax base, an experience which has left me fully prepared to meet the challenges that await our next governor.”

Hannemann is committed to addressing the most pressing issues facing Hawaii, beginning with what he calls the three E’s: economy, education and energy.  With the state enduring the worst recession in almost a century, an education system in need of repair, and the highest fuel prices in the country, we need a leader who has experience in bringing people together to find viable solutions.

“We must muster all of our resources and energy to find solutions—not fault, to capitalize on new opportunities rather then dwell on past failures, and to tap into the richness of our cultures, our people and the collective strength of who we are as a state,” said Hannemann.  “As governor, I want to create a renewed spirit of cooperation and collaboration across all spectrums of our society.“

Thousands of grassroots supporters have been urging Hannemann to run for governor for nearly a year.  Since announcing his candidacy for governor, he has received the endorsement of many of Hawaii’s most largest and influential labor and business groups, including the Iron Workers Local 625, International Longshore and Warehouse Union Local 142 and the Hawaii Longshore Division (ILWU), State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers (SHOPO), Sheet Metal Workers Local 293, International Union of Painters and Allied Trades District 50, Drywall Tapers Finishers Local 1944, Operating Engineers Local 3, Hawaii Fire Fighters Association (HFFA), Hawaii United Public Workers (UPW), Hawaii Teamsters & Allied Workers Union, Local 996 and the Hawaii Hotel and Lodging Association (HHLA).

“As Mayor for the past six years and during his tenure as a member of the City Council, Mufi has clearly demonstrated that he can work creatively to find solutions to our problems, implement them and be held accountable for the outcomes,” said Dean Okimoto, Hannemann’s campaign chairman.  “These are critical times for Hawaii and we need to elect a governor who has the background and the right experience to move our state forward.”