Huge Support for Hannemann at Kauai Rally

For the second time this week, droves of supporters turned out, this time on Kauai, to urge Mayor Mufi Hannemann to run for governor.  The “Go Mufi Go” rally, held at the Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall, was a family event that included Hawaiian-style food, music by Kauai’s top talents and a Keiki Fun Zone.  More than 1,000 Kauai residents attended the rally, including:

  • Mayor Bernard Carvalho
  • Former Mayor Maryanne Kusaka
  • Rep. Roland Sagum
  • Rep. Jimmy Tokioka
  • Councilman Kaipo Asing
  • Councilman Daryl Kaneshiro
  • Councilman Derek Kawakami
  • Councilwoman Lani Kawahara

Mufi and Bernie sing Blue Hawaii
Kauai Mayor Bernard Carvalho and Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann sing Blue Hawaii at a "Go Mufi Go" Rally at the Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall.  Miss Mokihana – Kauai, Noe Kaui, dances the hula.

Entertainer Augie T also came out in support of Hannemann, and emceed the rally.

Momentum for Hannemann to throw his hat in the governor’s race has been mounting since February.  Earlier this month, the Iron Workers Local 625 and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) endorsed Mayor Hannemann to run for governor, declaring that he has the vision and ability to put Hawaii back on the right track.  
 
Support on the Neighbor Islands has been exceptionally strong for Hannemann, one of the co-founders of the Hawaii Council of Mayors. The Council stepped up to reach an agreement with the United Public Workers for a new collective bargaining pact after talks with the State broke down. Most recently, the Council has been working with the legislature to preserve the counties' share of the hotel room tax revenues.
 
“I was deeply moved by the excitement and support I received from the people of Kauai tonight.  Many expressed to me that they are frustrated with statewide officeholders who do not consider the needs of all islands. Voters want a leader who has proven dedication to work with local leadership in every community,” said Mayor Mufi Hannemann.  “Kauai’s people are not interested in candidates who only show up looking for votes.  They know I am someone who understands their issues and understands the importance of having all islands involved in the major decisions facing our state."
 
In February, thousands of supporters on the Big Island and Maui turned out to urge Mayor Hannemann to enter the governor’s race.  On March 23 this week, 7,000 Hannemann supporters turned out for a grassroots rally on Oahu – estimated to be one of the largest turnouts for any political candidate—announced or not—in recent memory.

To read the fully story in the Garden Island, please click here.

To view photos, please click here.