EDITORIAL
Advertiser endorses Ed Case for Congress
| • | Candidate profiles for Jan. 4 special election |
In the special Jan. 4 election for the Second District (Rural O'ahu, Neighbor Islands) seat representing Hawai'i in the U.S. Congress, The Advertiser endorses Democrat Ed Case.
In a field of candidates that is both lengthy and filled with talent, Ed Case best represents the combination of independence, experience and drive that will serve Hawai'i well.
Case has just come off a vigorous campaign for governor, during which he traveled the state, hearing voter concerns and developing a sense of priorities. He is in tune with the state's needs, economic as well as social.
It's true that the role of governor is substantially different from that of being a member of Congress. But whether the assignment is making executive decisions or legislating, the underlying goal remains the same: Doing what is best for Hawai'i's people.
If elected, Case would inherit a seat held for years by the late Patsy Mink, whose reputation as a political liberal was matched by her fierce independence.
While somewhat more moderate than Mink, Case is a true inheritor of her independent tradition. As a state legislator, he thought, acted and voted according to his own conscience. That approach will serve him — and Hawai'i — well in Congress.
As a small state with a small congressional delegation, Hawai'i can ill-afford representation that simply blends into the crowd. We need someone with strength of conviction and the ability to think independently, thousands of miles away.
In recent years, many in Hawai'i have lost faith in government and lost hope that those in elected office are there to truly serve. A hallmark of Case's years in the Legislature has been a determined effort to restore trust and confidence in public service. We have no doubt that he will continue that cause in Congress.
On major issues facing Hawai'i and the world, Case indicates a mature and nuanced approach. His answers to issues ranging from the Jones Act to war with Iraq represent an ability to see complexity and deal with it. Case does not bring a political litmus test with him as he approaches difficult issues.
With his fresh thinking, deep Island roots (his family has been here for four generations), enthusiasm and desire to serve, Ed Case represents the best choice to represent Hawai'i in the U.S. House of Representatives.
We urge your vote for Ed Case on Jan. 4.
