Incumbent Democrat Michael Magaoay held a substantial lead over Republican Gil Riviere after the first printout of the election results last night.

Riviere, 49, a mortgage broker, has been active in the community helping to preserve natural environments like Pupukea-Paumalu on the North Shore, serving on the North Shore Neighborhood Board and as a soccer coach.

A voice against the expansion of Turtle Bay, he said he could support sensible development but he would like to see agriculture and biofuel research grow on the North Shore.

"I think we are at the crossroad where we have to decide whether we're going to preserve some open space for future generations or are we going to continue down the path and become like a Hong Kong or Singapore," he said.

Magaoay, 55, has held his seat since 2000, and ran his campaign on his record, including 28 bills that he helped introduce and that became law last session.

He supported legislation on cancer research, a farm loan program, allowing solar energy facilities on marginal agriculture land, restrictions on noxious weeds, reducing regulatory burdens on small businesses and control of coqui frogs.

Over the years he's been involved in saving Kahuku Hospital and preserving Waimea Valley, Pupukea-Paumalu and Poamoho Camp.

"I'm here to get results for the community," Magaoay said, adding that as long as Democrats rule in the House, it's best to elect a Democrat. "To be realistic about it, it is still going to be run by Democrats. Realistically what can the other side do?"