Carpenters Union endorses Harris

By Lynda Arakawa
Advertiser Capitol Bureau

The 6,800-member Hawai'i Carpenters Union has endorsed Honolulu Mayor Jeremy Harris in his run for governor next year.

The union said the unanimous vote for Harris at the state political action committee level was taken in a May 12 meeting. The carpenters union endorsed Harris in his run for re-election as Honolulu mayor last year.

Harris, a Democrat, announced in April that he will run for governor in the 2002 election. Democratic Lt. Gov. Mazie Hirono and Hawai'i Republican Party Chairwoman Linda Lingle also plan to run for governor next year.

Statewide PAC chairman Paul Chang said it became clear to union members that Harris was more than "head and shoulders" above the competition in terms of administrative experience, a proven track record and understanding the issues and concerns of the members.

"He's proven to us over the years that he has been able to work well and effectively with others, including with our own congressional delegation," Chang said. "He is committed to reviving the economy and our construction industry through such innovative programs as providing tax incentives and revamping the land use process."