Good schools, good jobs, good government. These are not unreasonable demands. But sadly, some of our people have already lost heart and have left Hawaii to look for these things elsewhere.

Politicians all too often think about the next election. Statesmen think about the next generation.

Throughout my political career, I've believed in the concept of home rule. Some call it local control. Whichever phrase you use, the concept is the same - the best decisions are those made closest to those who will be impacted by the decisions.

Good schools, good jobs, good government. These are not unreasonable demands. But sadly, some of our people have already lost heart and have left Hawaii to look for these things elsewhere.

It pains me deeply to see members of my own party attempting to legislate women's health and contraception choices.

We have come dangerously close to accepting the homeless situation as a problem that we just can't solve.

I truly believe the brightest days lie ahead for the Great State of Hawaii.