Anderson running for governor
By Robbie Dingeman
Advertiser capitol bureau
Longtime businessman D. G. "Andy" Anderson ended months of speculation today to announce he is running for governor as a Democrat.
Bruce Asato • The Honolulu Advertiser
Anderson, 71, declared his candidacy at John Dominis, the Kaka'ako restaurant he owns, joined by about 25 supporters.
D. G. "Andy" Anderson today declared his governor candidacy at his Kaka'ako restaurant. His daughter, Randy Grobe, and son, Brian, were behind him.
Anderson said he considered the race carefully, while listening to the other candidates, before deciding to run.
"I don't hear the message I want to hear. I hear more of the same," he said.
Anderson, a longtime Republican, served for 20 years in the state Legislature and was city managing director under former Honolulu mayor Frank Fasi.
He said he is running as a Democrat because he believes in the party's goals and concern for social issues. Anderson said he was not ducking a Republican primary battle with former Maui mayor Linda Lingle.
"I quit the Republican party seven years ago," he said. "I never once sat around and said, 'Could I beat Linda Lingle.' I think their agenda is too narrow."
Anderson said he has a reputation as a businessman and a risk-taker but also someone who can bring people together.
"The governor is going to have to somehow regain the trust of the community," he added.
Anderson said he plans to work to diversify the economy and create a business-friendly environment.
His supporters who attended today's announcement included former Democratic Party chairman Walter Heen, former University of Hawai'i president Fujio Matsuda and Hawaiian activist Dennis "Bumpy" Kanahele.
