Case v. Gabbard [Archive] - HawaiiThreads.com

pzarquon

July 30th, 2004, 01:06 PM

Erika Engle's post in a Honolulu Weekly thread (http://www.hawaiithreads.com/showthread.php?t=1694) reminded me of this unusual letter that Ed Case's campaign sent out, directly challenging Mike Gabbard to "Please Answer Basic Questions About Yourself Now."

I figured I'd pull it up and post it here for the curious. It's basically a resume fact check, some of the questions I never thought to ask but am now very interested in hearing the answers to. It's long so I'll nest it for the impatient. Just click the "Show Spoiler" button for the full text!

July 21, 2004

Dear Mike:

The candidate filing deadline has passed and you are asking over 600,000 of Hawaii's people to represent them in our nation's highest legislative body. I trust you agree that the voters of the Second District are entitled to know exactly who you are, where you come from, what you've done, why you believe you're qualified, and what you propose to do.

You have provided virtually no details on your background, experience, beliefs, qualifications, or accomplishments to date, nor on your positions and proposed actions. You have also declined to talk directly with the media, instead requiring that they e-mail you their questions.

Here are some questions that any voter would want answered and that arise from your campaign literature and other information. Please respond to me with your answers to all at your earliest opportunity.

Background

1. Where and when were you born?

2. Who were your parents and where were they from?

3. You've stated that your father was in the Air Force; what was his rank, and what were his postings and when?

4. Your website implies that your father was a pilot; was he and, if so, what did he pilot?

5. Where did you live growing up and when?

6. What schools did you attend, what high school did you graduate from, and where and when?

7. You've stated that you joined a Catholic seminary at 14; which one, where, and how long did you stay?

8. You've stated that you had a surfing accident at 17; where?

9. You've stated that you tried to enlist in the military in 1965; what branch and where?

10. Since your graduation from high school, where have you lived, when, and what employment have you had during each period?

11. During what years have you lived in Hawaii fulltime and where?

Family

12. How many children do you have?

13. What are their names and ages?

14. Where are they living and what are they doing?

Education

15. You've stated that you have a "BA in English from Sonoma State University”; what years were you enrolled there and when did you receive your degree?

16. You've stated that you have an "MA in Community College Administration from Oregon State University"; what years were you enrolled there and when did you receive your degree?

17. OSU doesn't appear to offer an MA in "Community College Administration"; please confirm the degree you received.

18. What other schools have you attended, and do you have any other educational qualifications?

Experience

19. You've stated that you have "devoted 20 years to education"; at which schools have you worked, during which years, and what were your job titles and responsibilities?

20. You've stated that you're a "longtime educator/teacher"; at which schools have you worked, during which years, and what were your job titles and responsibilities?

21. You've stated that you've "worked with young people as a teacher, guidance counselor, college administrator and coach"; at exactly which schools, during which years, and what were your job titles and responsibilities?

22. You've stated that you were affiliated with the " Ponomauloa School" in Wahiawa; what type of school was that, what years was it in existence, and what were your responsibilities and in what years?

23. You've stated that you "know the challenges of running your own business"; exactly what businesses have you owned or operated, where were they located, and what was your specific role with each and in what years?

24. You've stated that you are a "small business advocate"; exactly when and in what ways?

25. What other business or professional experience do you have?

Religion

26. You have implied that you are or have been a Catholic; are or were you, when, and what church if any do you currently attend?

27. Are you or have you been a follower of the religion sometimes called Vaisnava or Vaishava, and have you worshiped or do you worship Lord Brahma or Lord Vishnu?

28. Do you follow or have you followed the teachings of the Vedas?

29. Are you or have you been a follower of Chris Butler, also referred to as Jagad Guru, Siddha Swarupa Ananda, or Siddhaswarupananda Paramahansa?

30. What is or has been your relationship with any of the Science of Identity Foundation, Identity Institute International, the International Society for Khrishna Consciousness, or Down to Earth Inc.?

Government Experience

31. What specific government experience did you have, and when, prior to your current service on the Honolulu City Council?

32. Did you work for former State Senator Rick Reed?

33. What do you regard as your five primary accomplishments during your year-and-a-half of service on the Honolulu City Council?

34. You've stated that our "major challenges are improving education, protecting our environment, winning the war on terrorism, and strengthening our economy." What exactly have you done to address each such challenge during your service on the Council?

35. You've cited the following as major issues: "a balanced budget; education; national security and the war on terrorism; affordable housing; war on drugs/ice; transportation infrastructure; environmental protection; Native Hawaiian concerns; health and senior care." What exactly have you done to address each such challenge during your service on the Council?

36. You've stated that you have "worked statewide to help combat drugs"; exactly how and when?

Second District Experience

37. During which years have you lived fulltime in the Second Congressional District and where?

38. What specific actions do you cite as providing you with knowledge and experience with respect to the Second Congressional District?

Awards/Recognition

39. What specific awards or recognition have you received, from whom, and when, for your government, community or personal service?

Platform/Proposed Actions

40. You've stated that our "major challenges are improving education, protecting our environment, winning the war on terrorism, and strengthening our economy." What exactly do you propose to do to address each such challenge?

41. You've cited the following as major issues: "a balanced budget; education; national security and the war on terrorism; affordable housing; war on drugs/ice; transportation infrastructure; environmental protection; Native Hawaiian concerns; health and senior care." What exactly do you propose to do to address each such challenge?

42. Exactly what else do you propose to do to represent the people of the Second Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives?

Overall

43. What other details can or will you provide with respect to your qualifications to serve Hawaii's Second Congressional District in the U.S. House?

With aloha,

Ed Case

Linkmeister

July 30th, 2004, 02:11 PM

Other than the "are you now or have you ever been" tone of the religious questions, none of those strike me as unfair. Good for Ed.

pzarquon

July 30th, 2004, 02:24 PM

That definitely strikes me as where The Point is in the whole exercise... couched in a few "tell us about your daddy" softballs. I don't think they're out of line, though. He invokes Catholicism rather prominently (http://www.mikegabbard.com/popup.php?bcid=146), but then doesn't really say much about how his faith played a role in the years after his teens. The big chapter on the same-sex marriage battle (http://www.mikegabbard.com/popup.php?bcid=150) is curiously devoid of the religious angle.

Further reviewing Gabbard's website, there's a correction (http://www.mikegabbard.com/popup.php?bcid=148) to one chapter, and notes that several others are incomplete: "More coming soon." Details are remarkably scarce, for would-be fact checkers.

Ed Case's calls for clarification of his experience as an educator are similarly strong, I think, and probably easier to clear up... one hopes. After all, when his wife pulled out of her run for office, she invoked the "Mike as Experience Educator" image quite a bit. I hope it's more than his degree.

He notes his experience as a "teacher, guidance counselor, college administrator, and coach." Surely even a basic CV could give us schools and dates?

Linkmeister

July 30th, 2004, 04:44 PM

One would think a CV would clear up the employment and education questions, although there've been a few cases in the national news of fraudulent resumes (remember the Notre Dame coach a while back?).

I had a naughty thought this afternoon, speaking of running against Republicans. It occurred to me that if I were running, I'd simply ask this question to my audience:

"My opponent is a member of the same party as GWB, Dick Cheney, John Ashcroft, Tom Delay and Newt Gingrich. Is their philosophy one you want to elect here in Honolulu?"

That's an open-source question, Democrats. If you want it, take it. ;)

BKHale2007

July 31st, 2004, 02:23 PM

Gabbard wonders if Case himself wrote the letter and Mike Peters, a former legislative aide at the State Capitol, questions Case about his record.

(http://www.hawaiireporter.com/story.aspx?f757f250-8580-42a6-a154-9ed53d338cfd)

(http://www.hawaiireporter.com/story.aspx?f0a1a402-b66b-4e41-89d4-39be40f832b7)

Linkmeister

July 31st, 2004, 03:50 PM

pzarquon

August 1st, 2004, 06:12 AM

Gabbard wonders if Case himself wrote the letter Translation: Gabbard hopes to dodge the questions - questions a taxpayer could have easily asked as well - by coming up with a ridiculous reason not to answer them. The best part is, if Case gives Gabbard a ring (though I doubt he would - I wouldn't), Gabbard will either fail to report it or use it as a launching pad for the next ridiculous excuse ("He didn't say please! Cleary Case is an unprofessional politician who...").

Would he feel better if a constituent rewrote the survey and submitted it again? Sheesh.

Mike Peters, a former legislative aide at the State Capitol, questions Case about his record. Oh, this was my favorite. He reviewed Case's record, point by point, like any good opposition researcher would... completely blind to the fact that the entire basis for his analysis was a call for his candidate to clarify his utter and total lack of any record whatsoever.

It doesn't look good for Gabbard. If it ever did.

Linkmeister

August 1st, 2004, 07:28 AM

Turns out Case can pick up the latest edition of Honolulu magazine; a lot of those biographical questions are answered in a story there. (Caution: this is the same issue that has the annual restaurant guide, so it feels like Modern Bride when you pick it up.)

pzarquon

August 1st, 2004, 02:26 PM

Could you post the excerpts relevant to his academic credentials? Has he reaffirmed his alignment with a Christian church?

I have a Honolulu subscription but it goes to a P.O. Box that's now considerably further away from where I live than it used to be. :) I don't get out there too often.

Meanwhile, Case has fired off a follow-up to his first letter, this one tackling Gabbard's City Council record. Click the "Show Spoiler" button for every word.

Dear Mike:

Ten days have passed since my July 21st letter asking you to answer some basic questions about your background, education, experience, platform, and other matters any voter would want to know, but you have declined to provide any responses. There are just 48 days left to your contested primary election and 93 days to general election day; how much longer do you intend to keep the voters in the dark?

Your sole government experience is your past 19 months on the Honolulu City Council, which is responsible for the well-being of the citizens of the City and County of Honolulu (encompassing the Island of O'ahu). I hope you will agree that voters are entitled to basic information on what you have or haven't done as a councilmember in making their decision on your current candidacy. Here are some basic questions on that record:

1. What do you regard as your five primary accomplishments during your council service?

2. You've stated that our "major challenges are improving education, protecting our environment, winning the war on terrorism, and strengthening our economy." What specifically have you done to address each of these challenges during your service on the Council?

3. You've cited the following as major issues: "a balanced budget; education; national security and the war on terrorism; affordable housing; war on drugs/ice; transportation infrastructure; environmental protection; Native Hawaiian concerns; health and senior care." What specifically have you done to address each of these challenges during your service on the Council?

4. From January through October 2003 you were Chair of the Council's Public Works Committee, responsible for O'ahu 's sewers, trash, drainage, roads, water, air, utilities construction and other infrastructure. What specific initiatives did you pursue as chair to maintain and improve O'ahu 's infrastructure and what was the result?

5. O'ahu 's sewage system is in crisis mode. What specific initiatives did you pursue as Public Works chair to fix our sewers and what was the result?

6. O'ahu 's roads are in disrepair. What specific initiatives did you pursue as Public Works chair to fix our roads and what was the result?

7. From October 2003 through the present you have served as Chair of the Council's Parks Committee, responsible for O'ahu 's parks, golf courses, gardens, auditoriums and zoo. What specific initiatives have you pursued as chair to maintain and improve O'ahu 's recreational facilities and what was the result?

8. O'ahu 's parks are in disrepair. What specific initiatives have you pursued to fix our parks and what was the result?

9. Please confirm that, during your tenure on the City Council, you voted to increase city fees, taxes and fares for park use, Hanauma Bay admission, TheBus (twice), trash disposal (tip fee), building permits, zoning applications, sewer hookup, car registration, car weight tax, real property and others.

10. Please confirm that you voted for the Council's proposed Fiscal Year 2004 and Fiscal Year 2005 budgets, both of which relied on substantial increases in City taxes, fees, fares and other revenue sources.

11. Your council district (Ewa Beach through Wai'anae), most of which I represent in Congress, has some of the most challenging and pressing needs in our state. What do you regard as your five primary initiatives for your council district, and your five primary district accomplishments?

12. The economy and small business is a major challenge in our district. What specifically have you done to address this challenge?

13. Agriculture is an important but endangered component of the economy and lifestyle of our district. What specifically have you done to preserve agricultural lands and help farmers and ranchers?

14. Education is a major challenge in our district. What specifically have you done to address this challenge?

15. Our district has one of the highest proportions of Native Hawaiians in the state. What specifically have you done to address the specific needs of Native Hawaiians?

16. Transportation and specifically traffic is a major challenge in our district. What specifically have you done to address this challenge?

17. Health care is a major challenge in our district. What specifically have you done to address this challenge?

18. Affordable housing is a major challenge in our district. What specifically have you done to address this challenge?

19. The overall infrastructure of our district is aging and deteriorating. What specific district capital improvement project (CIP) requests have you introduced or requested, and which of these requests were approved?

20. Crime and drug abuse, especially ice, is at crisis levels in our district. What specifically have you done to address this challenge?

21. Our district has among the lowest income levels and highest social needs in our state. What specifically have you done to assist those in need?

22. How many regular district community meetings have you scheduled as your district's councilmember and personally attended? Please note that this refers only to those you actually attended, as opposed to those scheduled and canceled, or those scheduled and where someone else represented you.

23. Please disclose the details of the following: (a) your use of your personal contingency allowance; (b) your travel reports including travel expense reimbursements; and (c) your disclosure of financial interest statements.

24. Please provide any other information that would assist any voter in fairly evaluating your 19 months of government service.

With aloha,

Ed Case

Not half as effective as the first letter, especially given the number of questions Case already knows the answer to. I have to admit, now that Case has gone with this gimmick twice, it looks less strategic and more desperate.

That's not to say Case doesn't have my vote. But the man should really be doing better than this.

Linkmeister

August 2nd, 2004, 07:42 AM

Not half as effective as the first letter, especially given the number of questions Case already knows the answer to. I have to admit, now that Case has gone with this gimmick twice, it looks less strategic and more desperate.

I disagree. I think this is meant to go to the public for it to chew over; the fact that Case may know the answers doesn't mean the voters do. But hey, neither of us is a paid political consultant, so we can opine all we want, right? ;)

I'll try to condense the academic stuff a little later today and post it.

Linkmeister

August 2nd, 2004, 02:43 PM

Ok, pzarquon and all you other District 2 voters. Here's a brief summary of the relevant background portions of the Honolulu magazine article, Aug. 2004, pp. 34-38. If it's enclosed in quotation marks it's direct from the article; if it's not, it's my paraphrasing.

"Gabbard was born in Samoa in 1948, one of eight children in a military family. The Gabbards relocated to Hawai'i when he was a child. He received a bachelor's in English from Sonoma State University and a master's in community college administration from Oregon State.

"In the late '70s he worked as head tennis pro at Kuilima Hyatt Resort (now Turtle Bay Resort). From 1980 to 1983, he was a dean at American Samoa Community College before moving back to Hawai'i with his family. Gabbard and his wife, Carol, established a small private school in Wahiawa, which closed after five years. The couple homeschooled all their five children. In the late 1980s, the Gabbards, opened the Natural Deli, a vegetarian restaurant within Moilili's Down to Earth Natural Food Store. Today he distributes air and water purifying systems and nutritional supplements and owns a small confection company."

[snip]

"In the early '90s, he founded an educational nonprofit called Stop Promoting Homosexuality and bought airtime at local radio station KGU for a show called Let's Talk Straight Hawai'i."

[snip]

"Gay rights activists picketed his deli, and Down to Earth eventually bought out Gabbard's business. The station pulled the plug on his radio program."

[snip]

"But Gabbard had strong ties to an obscure Hare Krishna splinter group that, in the late 1970s, fielded several political candidates."

The Hawai'i Christian Coalition links to Gabbard's website. By law it can't endorse, but it can publish voters' guides. Gabbard's site informs churches what political activities are acceptable for them under election law.

He says he's Catholic and attends services regularly.

The splinter group was founded by Chris Butler (possible Google search there). Butler's group (it had several names, including Hare Name Society, Identity Institute, and Science of Identity Foundation) broke away from ISKCON, the overarching Krishna outfit, and is/was apparently pretty controversial. Both Gabbard and his wife were listed as teachers at the SOIF in Polk's Directory within the past decade.

Some of those folks formed the Independents for Godly Government. One of the candidates they offered was Wayne Nishiki, current Maui councilman; another was Kathy Hoshijo, who picked up 17% of votes in the race for Congress (note: unclear which race for Congress...the runoff for Patsy's seat or the subsequent one).

Gabbard and wife worked for Rick Reed (former Maui senator of Inouye 1992 smear fame).

Pick up the magazine for the balance of the article.

BKHale2007

August 2nd, 2004, 02:58 PM

Although I'm doing some belated spring cleaning and am trying to limit the number of magazines I get, I'll try to pick up Honolulu Magazine. People just don't know.

BKHale2007

August 2nd, 2004, 06:32 PM

Case, Gabbard Congressional Race Heats Up: Case Demanding Answers, Gabbard Not Giving Them

U.S. Rep. Ed Case, D-Hawaii, Second District, has sent his main opponent in the 2004 U.S. House race, City Council Member Mike Gabbard, two letters asking for more information on his background.

"Open Letter to Mike Gabbard from Ed Case"

"Case To Gabbard: Basic Questions On Your City Council Record"

The letters ask simple questions about Gabbard’s background, family life and voting record in the Honolulu City Council – facts that Gabbard has not addressed on his Web site or in the media. Gabbard also has asked the media with questions to send them by email because of his busy schedule rather than discuss them by phone or in person.

In response to the letters from Case, Gabbard sent two short emails to HawaiiReporter.com saying he wanted to ensure the letters actually came from Case, and his most recent letter sent yesterday, says he will decide how to respond to the first and second letter after Case answers his questions. The emails from Gabbard are below.

Below are two emails I’ve sent Ed Case. I’ll decide how I will respond once Case answers my question about the email list of people who received his questions/accusations.

Dear Rep. Case,

You have not answered my question as to whether or not you will give me the email list of the people to whom you sent your first list of questions/accusations. There is no use answering your questions if I am not able to get them to the people who received your questions/accusations. So if you are sincere, please confirm that you will send me the email list so that I can be assured the people who received your questions/accusations will receive my uncensored answers.

With warm aloha, Mike

Date: Mon, 26 Jul 2004 16:43:06 -1000

From: Mike Gabbard

To: Ed Case

Aloha Ed. Thanks for confirming (that you sent that letter). By the way, before I spend time answering/replying to your "questions," I'd want assurance that the same people you sent your letter to (30,000 email list?) will receive my answers/reply uncensored.

Konaguy

August 2nd, 2004, 06:47 PM

Where I live in Kailua-Kona I have only seen Mike Gabbard political signs
in front of peoples houses until tonight when I noticed someone put out
some Ed Case signs.

Linkmeister

August 2nd, 2004, 08:00 PM

Dear Rep. Case,

You have not answered my question as to whether or not you will give me the email list of the people to whom you sent your first list of questions/accusations. There is no use answering your questions if I am not able to get them to the people who received your questions/accusations. So if you are sincere, please confirm that you will send me the email list so that I can be assured the people who received your questions/accusations will receive my uncensored answers.

With warm aloha, Mike

Date: Mon, 26 Jul 2004 16:43:06 -1000

From: Mike Gabbard

To: Ed Case

Aloha Ed. Thanks for confirming (that you sent that letter). By the way, before I spend time answering/replying to your "questions," I'd want assurance that the same people you sent your letter to (30,000 email list?) will receive my answers/reply uncensored.

You know, that's a request worthy of Karl Rove and the Bush Administration. "If you'll just turn your mailing list over to me I'll be happy to answer your questions."

I wonder how you say chutzpah in Hindi?

Glen Miyashiro

August 9th, 2004, 11:32 AM

Speaking of Hindi and the Gabbards, I had always assumed that Tulsi Gabbard's name was Samoan or something, but a quick Google finds that "tulsi" is an Hindi name for the basil plant. Another bit of data about Gabbard's affinity to things Indian.

pzarquon

August 9th, 2004, 08:33 PM

The ever prolific Ed Case PR machine crowed today about the Star-Bulletin poll of likely second district voters (http://starbulletin.com/2004/08/09/news/story2.html), but they wouldn't deign to even mention Gabbard's name, simply referring to "an opponent" coming in second at 18 percent to Case's 67 percent.

Perhaps giving up any remaining shred of hip, self-aware irony, this paragraph was particularly entertaining.
Case: "I also see that my opponent is going negative fast, as he can only say negative things about me and continues to refuse to say who he is, what he's done, what he stands for, and how he would represent all of 600,000 Hawaii citizens in Congress. He and his mentors and supporters are old pros at misrepresentation, obfuscation, diversion and outright vicious campaigning, and I'm afraid that with this poll showing him this far behind at this stage in the campaign we'll see his true colors real fast."Emphasis added. Admittedly, I'm living in a bit of a bubble these days, but in the Case v. Gabbard race, I'm mostly hearing from Case, and most of what I'm hearing would qualify as negative.

Pot, meet kettle...

Seriously, Case absolutely has my vote, but he's doing himself a disservice giving Gabbard so much attention, and doing it so badly.

BKHale2007

August 9th, 2004, 09:06 PM

Because of this (http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&lr=&ie=UTF-8&safe=off&q=Ed+Case+jones+Act), I'm not automatically going to vote for Case. I wonder what John Gentile has to offer.

BKHale2007

August 9th, 2004, 10:29 PM

John Gentile's site. (http://www.johnforhawaii.com/pages/issues_summary.html) He seems like a greener Democrat. It may be a longshot, but what if he wins the primary?

pzarquon

August 10th, 2004, 05:34 AM

I'm not sure I'm reading the search results correctly, but are you saying you're not voting for Case because he's in favor of weakening or eliminating the Jones Act? I've never been a fan of the Jones Act, but have never heard a local argument in favor of it, if you'd be willing to enlighten me.

As for John Gentile, he seems a nice enough guy, and has a simple site with his key platform issues put right up front... but is he campaigning anywhere outside of the Big Island?

BKHale2007

August 10th, 2004, 06:45 AM

The Jones Act (also known as The Merchant Marine Act of 1920)

On Ed Case's introduction of three bills in 2003, two of which specifically exempt Hawaii from parts of the Jones Act
http://pacific.bizjournals.com/pacific/stories/2003/07/21/daily37.html

On Jones Act Reform
http://www.lcaships.com/janews.html

Includes a letter to Ed Case about his bills
http://www.mctf.com/

Jones Act text
http://www.insuremarine.com/WC/jonestext.html

Repeal or significant change to the Jones Act could mean foreign shippers can move between two U.S. ports without employing American workers, without paying taxes, and without complying with U.S. safety and environmental laws. The Jones Act has been blamed unfairly for the high cost of some goods in Hawaii, but shipping costs have actually gone down. http://www.mctf.com/caseletter.htm
And the freight cost is only a small portion of what consumers pay.

mel

August 10th, 2004, 09:51 AM

The Jones Act (also known as The Merchant Marine Act of 1920)

Repeal or significant change to the Jones Act could mean foreign shippers can move between two U.S. ports without employing American workers, without paying taxes, and without complying with U.S. safety and environmental laws. The Jones Act has been blamed unfairly for the high cost of some goods in Hawaii, but shipping costs have actually gone down. http://www.mctf.com/caseletter.htm

And the freight cost is only a small portion of what consumers pay.

Small cost? Shipping is a signifcant cost whenever you have to ship something over. With some adjustment to this law and allowing the market to be open to other shippers will bring more competition to the island shipping industry and hopefully lower prices. We often read that Matson increases shipping rates due to fuel hikes, increased labor costs and so forth.

I am sure all of Hawaii's businesses would support lower shipping costs for goods brought into the islands. This will in turn lower prices or at least hold them stable instead of pushing costs for consumers continually higher.

Of course Jones Act supporters have nothing to worry about since I don't see the repeal of the Jones Act happening anytime soon. There is no further need to push the debate here.

On another note, the recent Star Bulletin poll shows that Ed Case is far ahead of Mike Gabbard, that I don't think anyone has to worry about Gabbard beating Case this coming fall. Even though I am conservative, from the crop of current Dems in office from Hawaii, I also like Ed Case.

It's a good thing I don't have to vote in this race since I don't live in the 2nd Congressional district.

BKHale2007

August 10th, 2004, 12:38 PM

I agree that some prices are higher than those on the mainland. One should factor in the distance of Hawaii from the mainland. That, I think, accounts the most for shipping costs.

Anyway, John Gentile looks interesting. I am surprised that Case is so far ahead in the poll. I know the second district includes the entire state except Honolulu, and I wonder if the poll had more Oahu and Maui people than residents of other areas. In Hilo I see many, many Gabbard signs, and not many Case ones. How is it where you live?

Albert

August 10th, 2004, 01:41 PM

I couldn't possibly vote for Gabbard, but I also couldn't possibly vote for Bush2.

Unfortunately, in the upcoming election, I don't want to vote for ANYONE who is running for ANY office ...

... so I'll sit this one out, and hope for the best.

helen

August 10th, 2004, 07:37 PM

I couldn't possibly vote for Gabbard

You can't anyway or for Case for that matter too since they are running for a seat that does not represent the area of Hawaii that you (and I) reside in.

Vanguard

August 12th, 2004, 04:52 AM

Other than the "are you now or have you ever been" tone of the religious questions, none of those strike me as unfair. Good for Ed.

I thought the religious questions were quite fair. Public servants, especially those running for federal office, need to be open about their life, even their personal life. I'm sure you'd want to know if Kerry had a shrine to Jim Jones in his house.

ISKCON (which Gabbard, Reed, and Chris Butler are not members of) is a cult which wont own up to sexually abusing children. Science of Identity Foundation (Butler AKA Siddhaswarupananda's group) is just another cult, which just happens to be much better at stealth and maintaining a very low profile, while exploiting their rank and file members.

Linkmeister

August 12th, 2004, 08:12 AM

Vanguard, I had my editor's hat on; I thought those questions could have been phrased a little less confrontationally, that's all. I agree the requests are legitimate.

Vanguard

August 12th, 2004, 12:31 PM

Ah right! Didn't mean to jump the gun. :)

mel

August 12th, 2004, 01:26 PM

Flew into Hilo yesterday for my one week vacation on the Big Island. I could not help but notice a ton of Gabbard yard signs erected in many neighborhoods in Hilo and many more along the Hamakua Coast going into Honokaa. I don't know if this is an indication of anything, but just thought it might be something for Oahu folks to note.

craigwatanabe

August 13th, 2004, 10:53 AM

Hey Mel,

I've noticed a lot of yards with both Gabbard and Case signs! Kinda dysfunctional families over here aren't they?

You still coming over to Kea'au for a visit?

BKHale2007

August 13th, 2004, 12:50 PM

I've seen at least one. I think it's that different family members have diffrent candidates they're rooting for.

mel

August 13th, 2004, 01:39 PM

I've seen a few Case and Gabbard signs on the same property in Waimea today. This phenomena is kind of like what occurs out in Waipahu, where you see Mufi and Bainum signs on the same lot. It seems if you went on signs alone, at least in certain parts of the Big Island, Gabbard could be ahead of Case... but then this is only an observation based on yard signs. Not scientific at all.

hanai

August 18th, 2004, 01:08 AM

The first post said this election campaign isn’t going to be friendly, I gotta agree.

I've followed Case's career since his failed bid for Governor, and now congress. Gabbard, a one-issue-man according to Case, seems to have a commendable council record on important issues like water, environment, trash disposal, taxes reform, Hawaiian issues, to name some that are very different from the marriage-issue.

Case has done many, many talk stories but the only bill he has introduced
is to rename a post-office ( http://www.mauitime.com/v08/v08_1/coco_wire.html) A candidate can listen to the constituents but will he actually act on it?

Someone mentioned that this Congressional District has only ever been represented by democrats. So was the Governorship, until Lingle ended 40 yrs of one party rule. One party rule is bad for democracy IMO. To quote a cliché – there’s always a first time.

Change is good, and will help eliminate corruption...Btw, apparently Case's cousin Steve Case is a big landowner on the neighbor islands (Maui Pineapple Co), and Ed Case is on the Congressional Agricultural Committee....hmmmmm

I recall another post saying that Case should do better than this. I agree. He’s a congressman in office and should behave as such. The negativity he exudes to his opponents implies that he is diverting attention from his own shortcomings... Right now Hawai'i needs a Great Uniter, like Kamehameha I....The Life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness...But case seems more self-righteous in his advocacy of extreme liberal views....this does not perpetuate the life of the land imo...

I'm not sure if I'll even vote, its not very motivating seeing all this negativity..... But I do know that the views I hold seem represented more by Gabbard than Case. Case’ morals seem almost non-existent, anything to get a vote kind of vibe... :eek:

Vanguard

August 18th, 2004, 04:18 AM

hanai

August 21st, 2004, 12:35 AM

Ed Case's cousin is Steve Case? Owner of AOL? Everybody in this race seems to be manipulated by a more powerful person in the shadows, in my opinion.

I found information about SIF which Gabbard is allegedly a member of. Fascinating ...

http://forum.rickross.com/viewtopic.php?t=820

Yeah, the Steve-Ed connection is interesting, if you search the archives on NY post you can see Steve is investing millions into development of his Maui land holdings, opening fair questions as to the actions of Ed on the agricultural commitee. I wonder if they have a jeremy harris contracts for contributions program going on, or somesuch.

Anyway, I deliberately avoided the religion aspect, as I do not know much about it. But Vanguard, I’m sure if you can take what someone somebody else said, I’m sure you can take that which is more direct.

Maybe you haven’t seen this, from Mike's offical site http://www.mikegabbardreligion.com/ :

Question: How do you feel about the Science of Identity Foundation and Chris Butler?

Answer: Although I am not a member of the Science of Identity Foundation, I am eternally thankful to Chris Butler, the founder of SIF, whose teachings helped inspire me to return to my Catholic roots and the fundamental teachings of Jesus Christ.

Question: I’ve heard so many rumors about Mike Gabbard’s religion. I’ve heard you were a Bahai, a Moonie, a Hare Krishna, a Mormon, a Christian Scientist, a Buddhist. Why is it that some people don’t seem to know you’re a Catholic?

Answer: Maybe because my political opponents like to spread lots of false rumors. But also, remember I spent decades studying and exploring various major religious philosophies and schools of thought. I am very well acquainted with both Eastern and Western philosophies and I have great respect for people of the different faiths of the world.

Also, I feel quite comfortable moving freely amongst people of different religious faiths. I not only enjoy attending Catholic and Evangelical worship services, I also enjoy worshiping with people of non-Christian faiths. And you may not know, over the years I have given lectures and sermons on the subject of selfless service, devotion to God and meditation to people of all faiths.

Most non-Christians know that I’m a Catholic, but they feel comfortable with me because they know I respect them and their values.

I firmly believe that if our world is to overcome the dark forces of selfishness, hatred, racism, and sectarian violence, that those who hold to universal spiritual values, no matter what our faith, must work together in a spirit of aloha and have the courage to stand up and fight for what’s right.

Vanguard

August 21st, 2004, 01:00 AM

Seeing as how SIF holds private meetings, and even aspirants aren't allowed there after quite some time of being checked out, there is no reliable way of verifying Gabbard's claims. How convenient for him.

BKHale2007

August 21st, 2004, 08:39 PM

There's an incidental mention of Mike Gabbard in the July 5 issue of The Nation (its theme is same-sex marriage), to which I subscribe and which arrived in today's mail:

Mike Gabbard, who led the fight against gay marriage in Hawaii, has thrown his hat into a Congressional race there... (p. 35)

kamlost

August 22nd, 2004, 02:35 PM

Why are they being pitted against each other when the primary's aren't even over? I wonder how Gentile feels bout that.

I don't like Case because of his blatant lack of respect for life.

Vanguard

August 25th, 2004, 04:43 AM

Interesting essay on the-hamster.com regarding the Hawaii US Congressional Race (http://www.the-hamster.com/mtype/archives/2004/08/kerry_holds_lea.html)

Ed Case made a mistake.

His mistake was not his questioning Gabbard's religious affiliations. Rather, his mistake was to question Gabbard's affiliations to a non-profit organization (seemingly religious focused).

Two words; plausible deniability.

His direct question should have been; "Are you a disciple of Chris Butler, AKA Jagad Guru Siddhaswarupananda Paramahamsa, AKA Prabhupad?" or "did you take initiation in the Holy Names of Krishna (AKA "Harinama diksa" in sanskrit) from Chris Butler AKA (etc.)?" Of course, it's now too late to change it.

Hypothetically, you can deny affiliation to an organization/institution easily. And you can tell the truth in the process! Just say "I quit" to the receptionist. Heck, let's say you quit a religious corporation. You could do that, and still attend services. That's not a problem. As the Jehovah's Witnesses would say, it's "Jesus' law, versus Cesar's law". You couldn't even call it a lie.

On the other hand, it is taboo for a disciple of a guru in the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition (the tradition which Jagad Guru claims affiliation) to deny one's guru. In some circles, it's even likened to when Peter denied affiliation with Jesus on Holy Thursday.

It's sort of laughable how Gabbard made light of Ed Case's question list, while simultaneously creating www.mikegabbardreligion.com to deny affiliation to SIF, while finding time and space to pay respects to Butler. Gabbard simultaneously calls Case's questioning ridiculous, while unwittingly giving credit to Case by purchasing a new domain and website to deny an organization which Gabbard makes claims the founder "helped inspire (him) to return to (his) Catholic roots and the fundamental teachings of Jesus Christ."

It's also been brought to this writer's attention, that the creator(s) of www.mikegabbard.info have been threatened with a lawsuit by SIF or Gabbard, for insinuating a connection between the two, and for copywrite infringement (presumably, for showing a clip of Butler's TV show "Jagad Guru Speaks" during which the Gabbards laugh at Butler's cynical remarks toward Christianity).

Anyone who knows Chris Butler even on a rudimentary level is aware that he has not appeared in public since the late 1970's, early 1980's. His sole link to the public is a television show. However, he will not appear "in the flesh".

Apparently, since his breakaway from the cultish Krishna organization ISKCON in 1977, Butler contends that members of ISKCON's managerial arm, "The GBC", have been conspiring assassinate him. Several seemingly impartial devotees from neither ISKCON nor SIF seemed to confirm that an attempt was made in the late 1970's. Since then, Butler has been laying low in Lanikai and Malibu. Even to this day, anyone who so much as wants a glimpse of Chris Butler in the flesh (they call it "Darshan"), must be screened carefully by Butler's disciples.

To avoid preceived violence against his person, and to avoid outside questionings of his doctrines, there are no outsiders at darshans and lectures. He detests ISKCON, and more recently, Hare Krishna cult Kingpin Narayana Maharaja's organization for canvassing the manager of Butler's Philippines temple in January 2000, Mahabhav das, who now resides in NM's main temple in India.

Therefore, I would believe that by Gabbard's appearance on Butler's television show, he is a full-fledged initiated disciple of Chris Butler. In the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition, your guru comes first, family 2nd, friends 3rd, and constituents last. On mikegabbardreligion.com, all he did was deny affiliation to SIF, which, as stated at the beginning of this essay, is something very easy to do. Case's questions, as insightful as they were, unwittingly gave Gabbard a considerable amount of "wiggle room" in vaguely, yet truthfully, answering legitimate questions which constituents have a right to know in detail.

kamlost

August 25th, 2004, 04:32 PM

BKHale2007

August 26th, 2004, 05:32 PM

That was the extent of the mention of Gabbard in The Nation but there's likely to be more mentions of him in the national media, and I'll post those as I find them. A 2000 Salon.com article also mentions Gabbard.

http://archive.salon.com/politics2000/feature/2000/01/24/evangelists/index1.html

A Hawaiian-shirt-clad Mike Gabbard, the anti-gay activist from Stop Promoting Homosexuality International, warned the crowd of the perils of the Vermont State Supreme Court's ruling on domestic partnerships.

j3rr3y

September 3rd, 2004, 08:59 PM

I'm a republican, and voting as such.

aloha_girlz

September 4th, 2004, 08:39 PM

I vote for the person who knows the value of family. I come from a troubled family broken up by differences that could have been avoided and can be fixed.

I will not vote for Case because of his supporting the very cause that took my brother away from the family. Because of his supporting the Jones Act, because of his support for abortion.

We need new blood in the Legislature.

BKHale2007

September 5th, 2004, 06:50 AM

Actually, Ed Case is against http://www.hawaiithreads.com/showpost.php?p=6470&postcount=28 the Jones Act

Google "Ed Case Jones Act."

Mike Gabbard speaks in the HawaiiReporter.com.http://www.hawaiireporter.com/story.aspx?ce417a70-0272-4e0d-9610-df0c323baa02

pzarquon

September 5th, 2004, 05:33 PM

Mike Gabbard speaks in the HawaiiReporter.com.About time. He hasn't won me over, but I found that basic presentation a lot more compelling than his websites -- both his official campaign website and his bizzare religion website. Case definitely has to try harder than the flippant "one-issue candidate" dismissal of his opponent.

Given all the focus on his religious views, and the extensive effort he put into settling related questions, I was struck by the absense of God, Christ, and religion from his detailed response. Apart from allusions to "values" and the trusty rant about same-sex marriage, someone viewing that letter who doesn't know anything about Gabbard would think he's practically secular.

Considering some Republicans are going as far as saying God and Christ are Republicans, I almost feel like thanking him for his restraint.

surfdog

September 12th, 2004, 05:38 PM

Being a Christian and a Republican, I CANNOT bring myself to vote for Mike Gabbard. He has a much more anti-Christian background that most people realize.

Most of us are aware of his long-terrm affiliation with the Hare Krishna cult movement, but not many have seen the tv footage of Gabbard smiling and laughing along while his guru talks about God being a "sadist" who "doesn't really exist", and calling those who follow Jesus Christ "idiots".

As a Christian, I find Gabbard's behavior offensive.

alohaj316

September 13th, 2004, 01:49 AM

Being a Christian and a Republican, I CANNOT bring myself to vote for Mike Gabbard.
Gabbard votes in line with the Republican platform and he votes Judeo-Christian values. There is no other candidate in this race meeting those requirements. I'm not letting some video from long ago nullify those. I've changed my mind on issues over the last 20 years, why can't Mike Gabbard have also?

kamlost

September 13th, 2004, 05:54 AM

Good point Alohaj.

pzarquon

September 19th, 2004, 07:57 AM

Primary Election update! District two results...

Republican Primary:

Mike Gabbard - 10,777 (76.8%)
Inam Rahman - 1,200 (8.6%)
Blank Votes - 1,087 (7.8%)
Miles Shiratori - 487 (3.5%)
Jonathan Treat - 470 (3.3%)

Democratic Primary:

Ed Case - 29,226 (87.3%)
Blank Votes - 2,634 (7.9%)
John Gentile - 1,618 (4.8%)

Linkmeister

September 19th, 2004, 08:54 PM

I've changed my mind on issues over the last 20 years, why can't Mike Gabbard have also?

Please explain that concept to all those folks who've bought the "flip-flop" line about Kerry, will you?

Vanguard

September 20th, 2004, 12:47 PM

I'm afraid that if I vote for Mike Gabbard, and then some mega tsunami hits Honolulu, he'll be too busy plotting about how to take care of "the rainbow triangle threat" to do much of anything else.

BKHale2007

September 22nd, 2004, 10:07 PM

Gabbard campaign manager suggests Star-Bulletin is biased against Case.

http://www.hawaiireporter.com/story.aspx?ab68f70a-b564-4be3-b56c-2bb0d117d1e6

Tutulady

September 23rd, 2004, 04:54 AM

Judging by that last article, as well as other claims from the Gabbard campaign machine, it seems as though Ed Case has a lot of power and control. Looks as though Gabbard is desparate and will stop at nothing to win. At least this has been my experience having supported his opponent for council in the last election. The man and his accolytes no doubt are media savvy and are dangerously manipulative. I consider his style to be very negatively focused and despotic. Often resorting to labeling when caught in a corner. I will never vote for him or his ilk, ever. JM2C :cool:

Linkmeister

September 23rd, 2004, 07:45 AM

Gabbard campaign manager suggests Star-Bulletin is biased against Case.

http://www.hawaiireporter.com/story.aspx?ab68f70a-b564-4be3-b56c-2bb0d117d1e6

That's a bid for cheap publicity. Newspapers cover candidates for the benefit of the public, not necessarily the benefit of either candidate. And I know this will come as a surprise to Gabbard's campaign manager, but they (gasp!) actually endorse candidates, too.

Tutulady

September 25th, 2004, 01:55 PM

That's a bid for cheap publicity. Newspapers cover candidates for the benefit of the public, not necessarily the benefit of either candidate. And I know this will come as a surprise to Gabbard's campaign manager, but they (gasp!) actually endorse candidates, too. :eek: You don't say... :D LOL j/k

Linkmeister

September 25th, 2004, 04:01 PM

Who's behind that HawaiiReporter site? I looked (briefly) for an "About Us" page and didn't see one. Anybody know?

Tutulady

September 27th, 2004, 09:48 AM

I don't know whose behind that paper but I do know from first-hand experience that their reporters (actually one in particular) tend to scew "the facts" to suit their (the papers') purposes. I know first hand that their news is not fair and unbiased (but really, what news agents are?) as most news outlets should be. I liken the Hawai'i Reporter to the National Enquirer in that no matter how much someone tries to "clarify" the facts, they will go out of their way to print" the truth" (their facts must be true since you're trying so hard to clarify what was said?). Bottom line, if you want to know the truth, one must first do your own "fact finding" and then only go with your own gut instinct. As the age old addage goes, don't believe everything you see or read in the news(papers). :cool:

Glen Miyashiro

September 27th, 2004, 10:15 AM

Who's behind that HawaiiReporter site? I looked (briefly) for an "About Us" page and didn't see one. Anybody know?
Here's their About Us (http://www.hawaiireporter.com/aboutus.aspx) page. Malia Zimmerman is the president, and Jay McWilliams is the vice president - marketing and sales. No one else is listed.

Linkmeister

September 27th, 2004, 10:57 AM

Here's their About Us (http://www.hawaiireporter.com/aboutus.aspx) page. Malia Zimmerman is the president, and Jay McWilliams is the vice president - marketing and sales. No one else is listed.

Hmm. How did I miss that? Thanks.

A quick Google search gives us this information about Ms. Zimmerman from the Grassroots Institute (http://www.grassrootinstitute.org/AboutGRIH/board.html), where she's on the board:

Malia Zimmerman, Wc.Ak. Vice President
is the president, editor and founder of the on-line business journal, Hawaii Reporter.com, which five days a week features stories on issues pertaining to business, politics, business, government and republishes stories and studies from numerous free market think tanks and public policy institutes around the world. HawaiiReporter.com is distributed to more than 10,000 subscribers in Hawaii and throughout the world five days a week. Prior to founding HawaiiReporter.com in Feb. 2002, Malia wrote for local and national publications such as the Wall Street Journal Opinion Journal, The Washington Times, Liberty Magazine, Midweek, Small Business News, Trade Publications, Hawaii Parent and Pacific Business News.

I don't want to practice guilt-by-association, but the WSJ and the WashTimes? There's a right-leaning slant implicit there.

Let's see about McWilliams.

Not much. He looks to be a reporter who writes for Hawaii Reporter and Small Business Hawaii. SBH could certainly be construed as small-government conservative, based on every public statement its founder (Sam Slom) has ever made.

Tutulady

September 27th, 2004, 02:52 PM

pzarquon

October 4th, 2004, 01:18 PM

Ed Case sent out the following e-mail blast yesterday:

Dear Mike: With respect to your email purporting interest in televised debates, I have no problem considering meaningful opportunities for "the voters of Hawaii 's second congressional district ... to see where you and I differ on the issues before they vote on November 2nd." However, given that your professed interest at this late date is contrary to your actual actions thus far, which appear designed to avoid any real public inquiry into your candidacy, it's hard to take your inquiry seriously. (Click "Show Spoiler" for full text.)

Specifically, your actions on which I base this conclusion include the following:

(1) You announced at the outset of your candidacy that you would not talk directly to any member of the media, but instead would only respond, if at all, to email inquiries.
(2) As reported in Honolulu magazine and elsewhere, you have in fact refused to talk with the media, even at your own public events.
(3) You accused the Honolulu Star-Bulletin, one of Hawaii 's leading statewide newspapers, of bias in specifically refusing to respond to its inquiries.
(4) You have refused to answer or even acknowledge the questions I put to you in my emails of July 21st and August 1st (see www.edcase.com (http://www.edcase.com/)).
(5) You refused to participate in the free 'Olelo public access television candidate debates.
(6) You refused even to tape a candidate segment for 'Olelo's Candidates in Focus, as, I understand, you have also declined to do for other island free public access television and radio.
(7) You canceled a joint appearance between us on KHON TV eight hours before our prescheduled appearance, claiming laryngitis, even though I personally saw you singing in a parade the previous day.
(8) You either cancelled or refused to appear on a joint talk radio appearance.
(9) You initially refused to appear in a traditional West Hawai`i debate cosponsored by the League of Women Voters, Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce, and Kona Outdoor Circle , essentially claiming bias by those organizations.
(10) Although you have apparently since agreed to debate me in the LWV/Chamber/Outdoor Circle West Hawai`i debate on Monday, October 18th, you have refused to grant permission for that debate to be taped by community television for showing to the voters. (Incidentally, just so you know in advance, I will most likely be taping this public forum for my own purposes, and, contrary to the techniques utilized by your supporters on Kaua`i, for example, we will not be doing so surreptitiously.)
(11) You have thus far refused to accept an invitation to appear jointly with me on PBS' Island Insights on Monday, November 11th.
Mike, informing the voters means providing every reasonable opportunity to inform them, not just those of your own careful choosing, design and comfort level. If you have truly turned over a new leaf, then please demonstrate your commitment by at least (a) rescinding your avoidance policy with the media and agreeing immediately and publicly to open, unstructured interviews and other communications with any media representative, (b) agreeing to appear jointly with me on PBS on October 11th, and (c) agreeing to community television taping of our West Hawai`i debate on October 18th.

Once you have done so, I will believe your inquiry regarding other opportunities to be a serious one and will look for whether and how we can make it happen. Please let me know at your earliest opportunity, as my Congressional duties in Washington D.C. are ongoing, and, like, I'm sure, you, my schedule in Hawai`i during the thirty days left to the election is rapidly closing out.

With aloha,

Ed Case

Konaguy

October 4th, 2004, 06:29 PM

Linkmeister

October 4th, 2004, 09:42 PM

There was something on the news in regards to a Federal Campaign Commission
inquiry into Mike Gabbards campaign. Evidently there is donations from
people whose occupations could not afford the donation to the Gabbard Campaign.

Rephrase that second sentence. "It seems unlikely their occupations would give them the spare cash to donate $2,000 (the legal limit) to any political campaign."

Yeah, a housekeeper, a landscaper, a one-person secretarial service...if they have 2 grand to spare to give to a politician's campaign then I'm in the wrong part of the self-employment game. ;)

Vanguard

October 5th, 2004, 06:06 AM

There was something on the news in regards to a Federal Campaign Commission
inquiry into Mike Gabbards campaign. Evidently there is donations from
people whose occupations could not afford the donation to the Gabbard Campaign.

It warms my heart to know that the federal government still has the chutzpah to investigate campaign finance. For a moment, I thought they forgot about us little people ;)

pzarquon

October 5th, 2004, 06:25 AM

There was something on the news in regards to a Federal Campaign Commission inquiry into Mike Gabbards campaign.Does anyone have a link? What media outlet was covering this investigation? I know campaign spending reports are public records and I can look them up myself, but I'm curious specifically about the assertion - at the Federal level no less - that this donor or that couldn't realistically have thrown $2,000 away.

Linkmeister

October 5th, 2004, 08:08 AM

Does anyone have a link? What media outlet was covering this investigation? I know campaign spending reports are public records and I can look them up myself, but I'm curious specifically about the assertion - at the Federal level no less - that this donor or that couldn't realistically have thrown $2,000 away.

I'm not sure it was Federal. Daryl Huff of KITV had a story about it last night; I'm pretty sure that's what Aaron saw. I just looked for a link on their site and can't find a thing; in fact, it looks way out of date. The lead story on Commitment 2004 (their election pages) is the Fasi endorsement of Hanneman, and a search for Gabbard turns up nothing.

BKHale2007

October 5th, 2004, 06:26 PM

I saw that too. Someone from Hawi on the Big Island, Alex (I forget his surname) made the allegations.

The Daily Kos's take on the Hawaii primaries, including a tidbit about Carol Gabbard not running for the BOE because she's preparing to live in Washington (if Gabbard wins).

http://www.dailykos.com/story/2004/9/19/2630/54779

Konaguy

October 5th, 2004, 06:29 PM

I'm not sure it was Federal. Daryl Huff of KITV had a story about it last night; I'm pretty sure that's what Aaron saw. I just looked for a link on their site and can't find a thing; in fact, it looks way out of date. The lead story on Commitment 2004 (their election pages) is the Fasi endorsement of Hanneman, and a search for Gabbard turns up nothing.

Yup thats what I saw, Darryl Huff's story. I swear it was a Federal campaign
spending commission inquiry. I couldn't find any news article URL for it though.
But there is a video of the piece on the www.thehawaiichannel.com

pzarquon

October 5th, 2004, 07:29 PM

Tutulady

October 5th, 2004, 08:23 PM

Ed Case sent out the following e-mail blast yesterday:Would it be possible to get a copy of that email so I can post it elsewhere? On second thought, I may just post a link to here and leave it at that. Thanks. :)

Tutulady

October 5th, 2004, 08:37 PM

Gabbard's karaoke ads are definitely not winning over any voters in my unscientific sampling of people with scruples. My wife nearly broke our TV throwing something at it the other night. What is Gabbard gunning for, again? Hawaii Stars or the U.S. Capitol? :)

I suppose it's supposed to be a strong "counterprogramming" move versus his image in some circles as the opposite of "aloha." But it strikes me as silly,especially since he has so much more of his platform to get out there than he has so far.I'm getting deja vu again. I predict there will be more ads/newspieces of him playing the guitar, pushing his CD, and leveling accusations toward his opponent and labeling opposing voters extremists, racists, et al. I also predict his evading direct answers to issues that require any amount of deep thought or focused visioning. Lastly, there will be a "media blitz" of advertisements, mass mailings, articles and sound bytes all extolling his morals and values ad nauseum.

NO, I am not psychic or psycho. LOL I just lived it and so far the pattern of previous tactics are becoming more and more apparent. :eek: :p

pzarquon

October 5th, 2004, 09:32 PM

Here's a direct link (http://www.thehawaiichannel.com/video/3785646/detail.html) to the clip. It's essentially an allegation at this point, rather than an independent and full federal investigation.
A civil rights activist has filed a complaint against Republican congressional candidate Mike Gabbard, accusing him of breaking federal election laws. the complaint alleges donors with modest paying jobs may be illegally used as conduits to funnel contributions to the Gabbard campaign. The reporter singles out a few entries from Gabbard's filings. Among the people giving big chunks of cash were a Kailua housekeeper, a Kailua landscaper, a Honolulu accupuncturist, a Makawao (Maui) landscaper, a Pahoa carpenter, a self-employed secretary in Keaau, and a self-employed jewelry designer also in Keaau. All gave $2,000.

Gabbard says the man, Alex Achmat (?), a resident of Hawi on the Big Island, is a sign thief. Um. How this is a response to the fundraising allegations is beyond me.

BKHale2007

October 6th, 2004, 05:57 AM

When I saw Gabbard with his guitar, the 1992 movie Bob Roberts came to mind.

Bob Roberts (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0103850/com/title/tt0103850/)

Vanguard

October 6th, 2004, 08:25 AM

Tutulady

October 6th, 2004, 08:44 AM

Here's a direct link (http://www.thehawaiichannel.com/video/3785646/detail.html) to the clip. It's essentially an allegation at this point, rather than an independent and full federal investigation.
The reporter singles out a few entries from Gabbard's filings. Among the people giving big chunks of cash were a Kailua housekeeper, a Kailua landscaper, a Honolulu accupuncturist, a Makawao (Maui) landscaper, a Pahoa carpenter, a self-employed secretary in Keaau, and a self-employed jewelry designer also in Keaau. All gave $2,000.

Gabbard says the man, Alex Achmat (?), a resident of Hawi on the Big Island, is a sign thief. Um. How this is a response to the fundraising allegations is beyond me.Similar themes exist from last election. Here's a quick flashback of a couple of items of interest (http://www.hawaii.gov/campaign/Bulletin/CSCBulletinBoard/2003/csc9-2.htm) relating to the Gabbard animetronics (play on word intentional :) ) that was found on the Campaign Spending Commission's website.

Tutulady

October 6th, 2004, 08:46 AM

American Idol, Senior Citizens' Edition?Hmmm... more like Hawai'i Stars or Star Search IMHO. LOL

BKHale2007

October 13th, 2004, 07:51 PM

The campaign violations accusation makes the Star-Bulletrin.

http://starbulletin.com/2004/10/13/news/index8.html

Linkmeister

October 13th, 2004, 08:38 PM

I know we have some local tv types in here, so maybe someone can provide an approximate answer to this. Those ads he's running during primetime news can't be too cheap, right? Anyone know what the rates are like for spots like his during those hours?

Reason I ask, I wonder how he's paying for those ads.

Vanguard

October 14th, 2004, 01:49 AM

The campaign violations accusation makes the Star-Bulletrin.

http://starbulletin.com/2004/10/13/news/index8.html

I just read the article. I believe it is a common tactic when independent advocates do their own investigations of government or political wrongdoing, a common tactic among the target of an investigation is to accuse the "advocate" of harassment, stalking, etc. to discourage further digging. I'm a layperson, and I truly hope that this fellow didn't go overboard emotionally if he was truly on to something :(

BKHale2007

October 14th, 2004, 08:54 AM

Gabbard Seeks Debate With Case

http://www.hawaiireporter.com/story.aspx?title=Ed+Case%e2%80%99s+Claims+Regardin g+the+PBS+Political+Forum+are+'Shibai'

pzarquon

October 14th, 2004, 09:31 AM

This (http://www.hawaiireporter.com/story.aspx?c563455e-7307-436c-a045-1eb63f7266e7) might be a better link.Case and Mike will be squaring off at a forum in Kona on October 18, 2004, sponsored by League of Women Voters, Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce, and Kona Outdoor Circle. Case has told the people of Hawaii that Mike refused to allow community television to videotape the presentation. This is a complete falsehood.Oddly enough, as Gabbard debunks Case's claims on the Kona event, the PBS forum mentioned in the headline is only addressed in a tiny sentence at the end. I haven't been tracking this ridiculous back and forth (conducted largely in e-mail, in part because that's the primary way Gabbard wants to work). What did happen to the originally scheduled PBS forum?

pzarquon

October 15th, 2004, 11:36 AM

Another blast out of Case... click the "Spoiler" button to read the whole thing. Case to Gabbard #4: Your Claim To Being A "Teacher and Educator":Mike:

Your current TV ad makes the claim that you are a "teacher and educator." Your campaign literature makes the same claim.In neither, nor in your website nor anywhere else, do you specify where and how you were or are either a teacher or an educator. That is why I asked you the following questions in my July 21st email:

- At which schools have you worked, during which years, and what were your job titles and responsibilities?

- You've stated that you were affiliated with the "Ponomauloa School" in Wahiawa; what type of school was that, what years was it in existence, and what were your responsibilities and in what years?

You have not answered these questions nor offered any other information justifying your claim to being a "teacher and educator." Please answer these questions, along with this additional question:

- Are you or have you ever been licensed or certified as a teacher in Hawaii or elsewhere?

If you do not answer these questions and provide information justifying your claim, I will comment publicly that you have misled those you wish to represent and others.

With aloha,

Ed CaseThe bit about Ponomauloa School is pretty interesting. Google turns up no sign that it existed - whether a web page or a reference to it in crawled government documents - beyond Gabbard's bio and of course Case's challenge. A search of the DCCA website shows an entry for Ponomauloa School, but after it was incorporated on Aug. 24, 1983, it seems the state never heard from it again (1985, 1987, 1988, 1989) before it was "involuntarily dissolved" on Feb. 28, 1990. The mailing address for this "school" was a P.O. box in Wahiawa.

Gabbard's bio claims he was a "headmaster/teacher" at this place from July 1983 (starting before it was incorporated?) to June 1987. Curious. Does "headmaster" mean "person who has the P.O. box key"? :)

Vanguard

October 15th, 2004, 12:29 PM

A search of the DCCA website shows an entry for Ponomauloa School, but after it was incorporated on Aug. 24, 1983, it seems the state never heard from it again (1985, 1987, 1988, 1989) before it was "involuntarily dissolved" on Feb. 28, 1990. The mailing address for this "school" was a P.O. box in Wahiawa.

Some might say it was a charter or private school run for children of SIF (I wouldn't know either way myself), but just like many things concerning MG, there are big, vague gaps in his bio that cannot be explained even with research of public records. Strange considering this is someone who wants to run for a federal public office.

Linkmeister

October 15th, 2004, 01:37 PM

I saw the first television ad accusing Case of promoting gay marriage last night. I wondered when Gabbard would play that card (and yes, it was from the Gabbard for Congress committee).

pzarquon

October 15th, 2004, 03:21 PM

Some might say it was a charter or private school run for children of SIFThat's what I was thinking. I wonder if SIF used a P.O. box in Wahiawa? And I agree. Even if it's all innocuous, there's too much behind the curtain to trust this guy to do right in Washington D.C. And what he's sticking through the curtain isn't exactly appealing as it is.

As for the ad... It's almost amusing how quickly he can go from "Star Search: Geriatric Edition" to "Danger: We're Going To Hell!" I thought the ominous, scary-movie soundtrack was a nice touch. (Not.)

Finally he falls back into the single-issue groove where we know he feels at home. I know a majority of Hawaii residents oppose gay marriage, but he's messed up the math. That ad will do nothing to boost Gabbard's narrow support, and will easily annoy the crap out of those who were possibly considering voting for him.

Linkmeister

October 15th, 2004, 03:41 PM

I should have added that I saw a new ad from Case which had a zinger slightly buried in it. It was something to the effect of "you need someone who knows what he's doing in Washington." The implication being, of course, that Gabbard wouldn't.

Tutulady

October 16th, 2004, 03:21 PM

My hubby came across an interesting tidbit in the Honolulu Weekly (www.honoluluweekly.com) this week. One of the lead stories happens to be about Mr. Gabbard, specifically, Gabbard Under Investigation (http://www.honoluluweekly.com/diary_main.html). :eek:

There's a link at the end of the article of which you can read by clicking here (http://www.honoluluweekly.com/archives/coverstory%201999/01-27-99%20Gabbard/01-27-99%20Gabbard.html).

One cannot help but wonder about someone facing so much enquiries yet refuses to deal openly with such harsh criticism and/or accusations. Creepy really.

hanai

October 16th, 2004, 09:22 PM

Its interesting how everyone is focusing on Achmat's unproven, uninvestigated accusation (which has not even been verified by the FEC yet) what happened to innocent untill proven guilty?

On the other hand, Ed Case has been PROVEN to have received illegal contributions, and the contributor has been fined by the Campaign Spending Commission.

---
see: http://starbulletin.com/2004/10/14/news/index6.html

The commission voted 3-1 yesterday to approve $61,000 in fines against the presidents of local government contractor KFC Engineering Management Inc. and sister company KFC Airport Inc. The commission alleged that the firms' presidents, Dexter Kubota and Brian Bowers, funneled more than $150,000 in illegal political donations.

Recipients included Honolulu Mayor Jeremy Harris, Gov. Linda Lingle, U.S. Rep. Ed Case, ex-Gov. Ben Cayetano, former Lt. Gov. Mazie Hirono, ex-Maui Mayor James "Kimo" Apana, former state Sen. Matt Matsunaga, ex-Big Island mayoral candidate Fred Holschuh and former City Councilman Jon Yoshimura, the commission said.
---

And regarding Case's accusations against Mike, claiming hes not even a teacher? Hes pretty dumb because I found his complete resume on mikegabbard.com quite easily. Is Case really a competent Congressman?

---
see:http://www.hawaiireporter.com/story.aspx?142bab4d-589d-4a71-bee1-41a886e9e1ab

Challenging Ed Case on Facts He Published About Me
By Mike Gabbard, 10/16/2004 3:42:54 PM

October 15, 2004

Dear Ed,

Aloha! You wrote me last night asking me for information.

See story in Hawaii Reporter: "Case to Gabbard No. 4: Your Claim To Being A 'Teacher and Educator'"

I sent you an email essentially saying that I would be getting you the information within 24 hours.

The fact that you quickly spread your letter of questions/accusations around the internet within hours after you sent me your questions is proof that you had no real interest in receiving the information.

The following information is and has been available on my website for months (and was provided to the Associated Press several months ago), but I will place it on the Hawaii Reporter as well so you will have no excuse for claiming that you are not able to find it on my website.

Education:

Student, Mother of Good Counsel Seminary, Warrenton, MO (1961-1962) Graduate, Choctawhatchee High School, Fort Walton Beach, FL (1965) Bachelor of Arts degree in English, California State University, Sonoma (1971) Masters of Education degree in Adult Education with emphasis on community college administration, Oregon State University (1980)

Professional:

Teacher/Educator/Coach

* Counselor at drug rehab program through Sonoma State (9/70 to 12/70)

Intern at emergency psychiatric ward, Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital (1970)

* Faga’itua High School—taught English and Language Arts to sophomores and juniors (1/71 to 6/72)
* Samoana High School– Program director/instructor in Pilot Project with 60 “problem” seniors (8/72 to 6/73)
* American Samoa Community College (ASCC), Psychology and English teacher (8/73 to 6/74)
* ASCC Guidance Counselor (8/74 to 9/76)
* ASCC Assistant Dean of Instruction (9/76 to 8/77)
* ASCC Dean of Adult and Continuing Education, State Director of Adult Basic Education (6/80 to 6/83)
* Ponomauloa School, Wahiawa, headmaster/teacher (7/83 to 6/87)
* Home schooling (1/78 to 6/80, 8/87 to 1/88, 1/91 to 6/95)
* Created and directed free junior development tennis program in American Samoa (1976 to 1983)
* Head Instructor Tennis, Kuilima Hyatt Resort, No. Shore, Oahu (1977)
* Volunteer, teaching school children the importance of protecting Hawaii’s watershed, our aina, and improving individual and community health (Activities of Healthy Hawaii Coalition which Mike founded), 2001 to present

In addition to the above information which has been readily available to you and the public, at your request I’ll add the following information in order to bring relief to your overly suspicious mind:

Carol was a certified teacher in California.

In American Samoa, teachers are considered qualified if they have proper college degrees, which both Carol and I have. There was no separate licensing or certification system.

In Hawaii, we both received professional staff certificates to teach on September 1st, 1983 (see attached).

I was headmaster/teacher and Carol was teacher at Ponomauloa School, which serviced grades K-12 and was in existence from 1983 to 1987.

Regarding your other questions concerning my position, responsibilities, etc., that information is evident in the job titles/descriptions themselves. Considering that you are an educated man, I presume I don’t need to explain what the roles and responsibilities are of a headmaster, teacher, guidance counselor, dean, etc. are.

Ed, I think you should seriously reconsider the central strategy of your campaign which is one of character assassination. You are essentially attempting to lead people to believe that I am not who I say I am. Your entire campaign against me is centered around this attack on me as a person and indeed my entire family.

Are you really so ashamed of your record and your position on issues? Can you really not find anything in my position on issues and my record that you could center your campaign around?

I would not mind at all if you were criticizing my record or my position on issues-- be it my role in trying to protect traditional marriage, my work on the Council, or my years of community service.

I’m criticizing your record and your position on issues. But I have not centered my campaign around trying to tear down your reputation as a person and I’ve certainly not gone after your family like you have gone after mine.

There’s only one explanation for the kind of campaign that you’ve been waging for the last two months and you’re obviously setting into high gear. You are ashamed of your record and you are ashamed of your position on the issues.

I am looking forward to our debate in Kona. I’m also looking forward to our OHA debate. But I still believe we should try to have a debate one-on-one on one of the major TV stations. I understand, however, why you are reluctant to help me push that forward.

Best wishes and aloha,

Mike Gabbard

P.S. Please send my response to your questions to the thousands of people who subscribe to your email list. Failure to do so will prove once and for all that you have no interest in getting information to people but are consciously trying to deceive and mislead people in order to achieve your political ambitions.

---

hanai

October 16th, 2004, 10:48 PM

If Case is supposedly clearly winning why is he acting so scared and resorting to increasingly desperate amateurish tactics? Probably because its a very tight race, he was elected by a special election in which a minority of registered voters actually elected him, and he knows he's taken some very controversial stands that are unpopular with the majority of voters who never voted for him. Maybe thats why he's constantly shifting attention onto Gabbard, a popular grass roots leader whos been very effective on the Council.

I think we should all keep an open mind about the FEC complaint though, Case is running a very negative campaign obviously. And such double standards, I find it distateful and bigoted how he makes his main campaign platform how he was born in Hawaii, implying that Mike can't represent because he was born in American Samoa (and came to Hawaii at age 1). We should look at a candidates issue and effectiveness. Plenty of other politicians and local celebrities, even hawaiian soveriengty activists, are born outside Hawaii but that doesn't make them any less than the rest of us. Shame on Case.

I've voted democrat in the past but these kind of tactics remind me of Hirono's bigoted campaign against Lingle, which failed. I think bigotry always fails ultimately, Hawaii's people are smart enough to know the difference between people accused of bigtory (Mike) who has genuine Aloha, and real bigots (Case) who cheapens and makes a mockery of Aloha by signing off his negative accusatory mass slander-emails with "with deep aloha" Yeah right! Insincerity can't be masked by cheap personal attacks.

And how's Case's boring uncharismatic ads, Case can't smile and his head bobs around too much cuz the camera angle was too tight, LOL. And he keeps saying he deserves to be in Congress cuz "hes already on the job" just cuz his family connections (AOL-Time Warner money) and illegal KFC contributions won him the low-turnout special election, and that he "represents all hawaii" But wheres the proof of that?

Hawaii state consitution says soveriegnty in hawaii rests SOLEY in the people, yet Case has always voted against even allowing the people to vote on referendums. He represents a vocal minority and special interests, nothing more. Thats why Gabbard has so many signs, he represents mainstream Hawaii, and thats why Case's supporters are so angry and targeting Gabbard's signs, they are an angry minority who's claims of representing all Hawaii are proven hollow by Gabbard's huge grass-roots support, causing them to attack these symbols at every chance.

And theres plenty of proof that Gabbard's accusations against Achmat are true, Case's supporters have been stealing Mike's signs, and Achmat himself said in the StarBulletin article that "those signs represent intolerance and bigotry" so obviously he feels its right to remove them....hows that for hypocricy and intolerance?

3 Separate complaints against Case's supporters' intolerance and sign-stealing:

http://www.hawaiireporter.com/story.aspx?66d23d20-da75-48cd-a2d3-0c13c5fd68ee
http://www.hawaiireporter.com/story.aspx?6f55aaaa-e89d-4729-9436-a79221af4d43
http://www.hawaiireporter.com/story.aspx?a50ebe1d-8feb-4993-9f04-017bb031b1de

And how about Golojuch being recently caught in the act:
http://www.hawaiireporter.com/story.aspx?6981c0bd-558c-47e2-ba1e-7b7c05c0762e

Golojuch has been a long-time opponent of Gabbard, as evidenced by the Campaign Spending Commision complaints he lodged against Gabbard (that were dismissed btw)and this recent expose of Golojuch's immoral underhanded campaigning is very reveaing as to the nature of Gabbard's detractors. As Inouye's ads say, actions speak louder than words. Its clear who's actually practicing intolerance and curtailing 1st Amendment rights.

pzarquon

October 17th, 2004, 07:44 AM

Hey, I agree, for a guy in such a relatively strong position, Case is overplaying his hand and looks the worse for it. The recent CSC finding about illegal contributions, meanwhile, definitely give Gabbard another arrow to stick in his quill, no doubt about it.

I mentioned the Golojuch incident in the political signs (http://www.hawaiithreads.com/showthread.php?t=1238&highlight=signs) thread. Yes, Gabbard opponents (moreso that than Case supporters, I'd say) are being morons.

And regarding Case's accusations against Mike, claiming hes not even a teacher? Hes pretty dumb because I found his complete resume on mikegabbard.com quite easily.Um. From both Ed Case's fourth missive and Mike's useless reply, it's not the resume that can't be found... it's any evidence of the existance of Ponomauloa School in the first place. I've posted what little I can find above (one incorporation notice, and then no filings for years before the state dissolved it).

Mike says it "serviced grades K-12 and was in existence from 1983 to 1987," and that he was headmaster and teacher. Note that it is the only item under his educational credentials that claims to be a real teaching position at a stateside institution. (The rest are in Samoa, or are things like "tennis coach" or counselor.) You'd think, then, there'd be more detail. As it stands, I'd say Ponomauloa School was a P.O. Box that serviced a handful of homeschooled kids.

Ed Case is looking bad, no doubt about it. But there's more unknowns to worry about in Gabbard's case, as far as I'm concerned.

Linkmeister

October 17th, 2004, 07:59 AM

Also note that none of those "educational' jobs other than home schooling have been held since 1987, according to Gabbard's own letter. Seems to me someone who's claiming to be an educator would have continued practicing, rather than stopping 17 years ago.

hanai

October 17th, 2004, 05:03 PM

Um. From both Ed Case's fourth missive and Mike's useless reply, it's not the resume that can't be found... it's any evidence of the existance of Ponomauloa School in the first place.

But, according to Case he couldn't find the resume: "In neither, nor in your website nor anywhere else, do you specify where and how you were or are either a teacher or an educator. "

Mike was a high school and community college teacher, dean, guidance counsellor etc. That justifies calling oneself an Educator, by any standard, and it was certainly specified.

Regarding Ponomauloa School, the incorporation notice proves it exists. It was obviously a private school of some kind probably homeschool related since thats his next resume educational entry. But I don't see anything wrong with that. The guy ran a private school thats now closed...and now you think that disqualifies him for public office? Odd...I don't see why.

Also note that none of those "educational' jobs other than home schooling have been held since 1987, according to Gabbard's own letter. Seems to me someone who's claiming to be an educator would have continued practicing, rather than stopping 17 years ago.

Well actually, his wife Carol is a certified teacher [stateside, for you anti-samoa nitpickers] and on the Hawaii State Board of Education since 2000, taking part in the sucessful negotions for raising teachers pay. And she has chosen not to run for BOE re-election, to focus on Mike's educational policy for Congress. I beleive thats why she appears in that education ad jointly with Mike.

I feel you guys are unduly nitpicking Mike Gabbard, like your TRYING to find something wrong with him. I can't understand it...he's obviously a nice guy whos done alot of good things for Hawaii...

Ed Case on the other hand, has received illegal contributions, contributions from known homosexual extremists and PAC's, and loads of old family money and AOL-Time Warner money...he doesn't have the same grass-roots feel. You know Case was elected by only 9% of registered district 2 voters in the special election? So he has alot of work to do to increase his support base.

Interesting how Case features his AJA wife so prominently in all his literature and marketing materials, the poster in his campaign HQ window is espically noticable, goes overboard imo. Seems to me hes desperate to capture the AJA vote. At least Mike's wife has as a purpose to being on the campaign, being an educator and BOE member...not just for cynical ethnic vote grabbing.

Gabbard seems to have a grass-roots upperhand, alot more yard signs (possible measure of support, gabbard haters won't put up a sign, they steal them) Mike's ads are alot more professionally made too, in my opinion. Ed Case's are flat and boring, they don't reflect Hawai'i imo. One shot has Case walking up the steps to the U.S. capitol, thats hilarious...

Linkmeister

October 17th, 2004, 08:47 PM

I feel you guys are unduly nitpicking Mike Gabbard, like your TRYING to find something wrong with him. I can't understand it...he's obviously a nice guy whos done alot of good things for Hawaii...

Well, in my case, I don't see a lot of good things he's done. What I do see is a single-issue candidate (homophobia) whose issue is extraordinarily divisive, and I don't want another man like that in the US House; there are enough like him there already (See Musgrave, Tancredo, et. al.).

Fortunately for me, I'm in the 1st District, not the 2nd.

pzarquon

October 17th, 2004, 09:11 PM

Regarding Ponomauloa School, the incorporation notice proves it exists.Hardly. I could've filed incorporation papers to start an aerospace company. Doesn't mean there ever was one. This is like saying making a reservation at a restaurant proves you ate there. Besides, he throws out the title "headmaster." It implies a bigger operation than a few homeschooled kids, and certainly one that would have a bigger footprint than a P.O. box.
I feel you guys are unduly nitpicking Mike Gabbard, like your TRYING to find something wrong with him. I can't understand it...he's obviously a nice guy whos done alot of good things for Hawaii...I know some of Gabbard's supporters think so, but "nice" is relative. Someone who hammered so hard on a single, divisive issue, and even now seems unable to let it go (despite a supposed new beginning in public service where you'd expect his focus to get a bit broader), doesn't a nice person, or good candidate, make. YMMV, of course -- that's why they have elections.

Ed Case on the other hand, has received illegal contributions, contributions from known homosexual extremists and PAC's, and loads of old family money and AOL-Time Warner money... Known homosexual extremists? What's a homosexual extremist? In Gabbard's fire-and-brimstone, "what if I want to marry my dog?" days, a loving homosexual couple who wants to get married would be branded an "extremist."

As for the money, you're right, Mr. Case is hooked up, that's for sure. Extremes on either end will always be problematic. Someone who funds a campaign independently? Trying to buy the election. Someone who fundraises relentlessly? Too vulnerable to influence by special interests.

Money wise, neither candidate's hands in this race are clean, that's for sure. Campaign finance being what it is, I doubt there's a single candidate anywhere who doesn't have some funny entries in their books. A few of them probably don't even know themselves.

Interesting how Case features his AJA wife so prominently in all his literature and marketing materials, the poster in his campaign HQ window is espically noticable, goes overboard imo. The quintessential "candidate and partner and their kids" stuff is a staple of campaigning. I'm skeptical of it in general. I don't care if Ed's wife is a nice local girl, and I don't care if Mike's wife is an "educator." I'm not voting for their spouses, or their ability to procreate. It's irrelevant... but it makes nice campaign literature, I guess.

Mike's ads are alot more professionally made too, in my opinion.I haven't seen a single local political ad that looks good, except for Dan Inouye's, and of course those'll be sharp, you know? :) Ed's, as you mention, can be positively cheesy. But Mike and his whole "Star Search" singing business is ridiculous. And, as I mentioned, going from that "happy singing love and aloha" to his "Ed Case doesn't oppose gay marriage!" ad with the spooky monster movie music is jarring. He's giving up any "I'm just a nice guy under attack!" card.

hanai

October 17th, 2004, 09:44 PM

Well, in my case, I don't see a lot of good things he's done. What I do see is a single-issue candidate (homophobia) whose issue is extraordinarily divisive, and I don't want another man like that in the US House; there are enough like him there already (See Musgrave, Tancredo, et. al.).

Fortunately for me, I'm in the 1st District, not the 2nd.

Single issue? He's done alot at a grass-roots level, and on the City Council, probably the most effective freshman councilman ever. Checking his website will show detailed policy proposals for the Economy, Education Reform, government reform, etc. So its highly misleading to call him a one-issue candidate.

--
Wa'ahila Ridge:

When a utility company announced plans to place huge towers and high voltage lines on Wa'ahila Ridge above the historic neighborhoods of Palolo, St. Louis Heights, and Manoa, Mike joined with preservation groups and others in opposition. Mike led a signature drive collecting about 12,000 of the 15,000 signatures gathered statewide, which was a major factor in persuading the state to protect Wa'ahila Ridge.

Mike Protected Our Water Supply

As a City Councilman, Mike has continued to fight for the environment. Shortly after his election, Mike discovered that developers and supportive politicians were quietly moving forward a plan to allow a garbage dump to be built in Kunia over the Pearl Harbor Aquifer, the source of fresh drinking water for 70% of Oahu's people.

Recognizing that he needed to do something to protect underground drinking water on all the Islands, Mike introduced a precedent-setting resolution prohibiting the placement of landfills over aquifers. He rallied environmental groups, other lawmakers, and concerned citizens and got his resolution passed.

Mike also had to mobilize the troops when state senators tried to pass a bill to force the counties to allow garbage dumps to be built over our aquifers. In a dramatic victory for Hawai'i's citizens, the senate bill was pulled back moments before its final reading.

Bruddah Iz
When lack of funds threatened to derail the establishment of a permanent tribute to the late, internationally-renowned musician, Bruddah Iz, supporters of the project went to Mike Gabbard for help. Appealing to local businesses and Iz fans as far away as the mainland, Mike raised $20,000 to make the Bruddah Iz tribute in Wai'anae a reality.

"I've always been a fan of Bruddah Iz but I hadn't heard of the effort to honor him with a sculpture until the artist, Jan-Michelle Sawyer came to my office," Mike said. "As soon as I got the blessing of Iz's wife, Marlene Kamakawiwo'ole, I set out to do whatever I could to ensure that one of Hawai'i's greatest sons would be appropriately honored - and in the place that meant so much to him: Wai'anae.

Bill 53
He has also introduced a bill to stop leasehold conversion, to stop the theft of lands from the hawaiian charitable trusts.

--

Regarding marriage, I bet you know ALOT of people who voted for the same-sex marriage ammendment that Mike spearheaded, do you think they should all be fired from their jobs for alleged 'homophobia' too? I've somewhat followed Gabbard's activities from the 90s till now..

Actually, I think alot of people are misled by the vitriolic diatribes of homosexual activists against Mike. Look whos hating? He's received death threats and picketing at his businesses...just for his stance on marriage being between a man and a woman...I think that shows the intolerance of the 1st ammendment displayed by certain vocal minorities.

But honestly, objectively speaking, if you compare Gabbard, what hes actually said about homosexuality, its actually compassionate and makes sense. The way some of these gays carry on its as if Mike is preaching that they deserve to die or something (totally not true) they're just trying to lump him by association to the radical groups who do preach such things.

The bulk of his argument against the promotion of homosexuality (not against homosexuals) is that it isn't necessarily an identity to be promoted, because it can be changed. There is a large and growing ex-gay community for example. So his point is, we shouldn't be misleading people that being gay is natural and normal by reason of being unchangeable...when it isn't. And so by extension, why pretend that gay marriage is the same as heterosexual marriage, it isn't. And a huge majority of Hawaii residents and people across the country agree with his position, so thats hardly reason to call him a homophobe. Calling him a homophobe exposes an elitist and divisive attitude towards most people in our state & country. He isn't calling anyone names that I've seen...look at the man, his message, his record, not the hype...

I'm more concerned about Case's position, against the will of Hawaii's people. He doesn't represent all Hawaii, more like...2% of hawaii.

kamlost

October 18th, 2004, 01:54 AM

why aren't people making a scene over the other candidates who receive a lot of money ($2000 and higher) from those listed as homemakers, self-employed - other similar stuff? doesn't make much sense.

Lotsa stereotyping going into this thing.. :\

Haha, Gabbard's got a great voice though.

Seems like there are a few frustrated singers amongst us ;)

pzarquon

October 18th, 2004, 07:00 AM

Single issue? He's done alot at a grass-roots level, and on the City Council, probably the most effective freshman councilman ever.Hey, Wa'ahila, dumps and aquifers, Iz... all good stuff. Why aren't these things at the heart of his expensive ads (not just on his website), rather than bad karaoke or "gay marriage = doom" melodrama? Honestly, I know very little about Gabbard's time on the council, although recently - considering the only time councilmembers made headlines was when they were in trouble - perhaps this is a good thing.

You raise a good point, generally, that while Mike Gabbard certainly hasn't dropped gay marriage as a fundamental element of his campaign, the public certainly hasn't forgotten how central he was to the whole debate, and how strongly - at that time - he was the voice of a single side on a single, contentious issue.

Because I felt strongly about said issue, I still feel strongly that Gabbard is the wrong choice to represent me at the national level. I'm more than willing to accept that there are thousands of my fellow residents who think his position represents them and will vote accordingly.

Regarding marriage, I bet you know ALOT of people who voted for the same-sex marriage ammendment that Mike spearheaded, do you think they should all be fired from their jobs for alleged 'homophobia' too?
Not at all. Half of my friends voted against it. I disagreed with much of their justifications for it, but I'm confident they thought a lot about it, and respect them for it. As you said, it was a majority vote. I disagreed with how it came to a vote in the first place, but, the people spoke.

But sadly, I do not agree with you that Mike is a "moderate" on the issue, or just a smiling, happy "traditionalist." There might be very reasonable reasons to oppose gay marriage, but a lot of the things he said amounted to the flat demonification of homosexuals as a group. Just the soundtrack to his "Case on Gay Marriage" ad proves how he likes to frame the battle.

The bulk of his argument against the promotion of homosexuality (not against homosexuals) is that it isn't necessarily an identity to be promoted, because it can be changed.
The only people who believe in the existence of an "ex-gay community" are its supposed members, and the groups that benefit the most by their existence.

Do I think there are homosexuals who think they've reformed? Absolutely. God and religion is a powerful motivator. But there are also people who believe with all their hearts that they've been abducted by aliens, or had coffee with Elvis in the Bronx in 1973. There are easily just as many people who are straight, experimented, and regretted it. And just as many people faking it to further their agendas.

The primary impetus behind the movement is a religious one; the term alone is enough for friends and families of homosexuals to wield against them, to reform them. Not a single credible medical, psychological, or sociological group has authenticated them. And given the only places these "ex-gay" groups surface, there's plenty of reason to doubt them.

I don't believe being gay is a choice. Obviously, most gay people don't think so either. But since this is more a discussion about gay marriage, let's pretend for a moment that it is.

So what?

The argument, on the marriage issue, that homosexuality "isn't necessarily an identity to be promoted" is probably the weakest one. On the base of it, after all, you have two rational, consenting, committed adults wishing to make their domestic, financial, and other affairs official. Two people who want to make a family unit, a more stable family unit, and where kids are involved, isn't this something we want?

But beyond that... what of other threats to the "sanctity" of marriage? Couples who get married but never have kids... the horror! Isn't that what marriage is ultimately for? Or, couples who get married for selfish reasons, for money, for the hell of it (Britney Spears, anyone)? Or, maybe those couples that constitute half of the marriages out there... ones that end in divorce?

All of the above may be things people don't like, but they (1.) represent the highs and lows you get when you accept free will and conscious choice and (2.) have not done more or less damage to your (in the generic sense) marriage or to the institution at large than a gay marriage would.

After all, Massachusetts is still standing. The real, net effect of gay marriage? More happiness and love in the world, I think.

Anyway, my main point was rambled out way up there. Gabbard may not be a "single-issue candidate," but he's not trying very hard to dispel that impression. And on that single issue, I wholeheartedly disagree with his stand, and would oppose him at the polls against a wide range of other candidates (perhaps moreso than I support Case).

But why should Gabbard worry, right? For voters who strongly agree with him on his signature issue, I'm sure they're pleased as punch to give him their vote. And him plus Bush means an even greater chance of writing a restriction of states' rights and individual's rights into our Constitution.

Glen Miyashiro

October 18th, 2004, 08:10 AM

What pzarquon said.

Linkmeister

October 18th, 2004, 08:18 AM

In response to my saying I see a single-issue candidate, Hanai said: Single issue? He's done alot at a grass-roots level, and on the City Council, probably the most effective freshman councilman ever. Checking his website will show detailed policy proposals for the Economy, Education Reform, government reform, etc. So its highly misleading to call him a one-issue candidate.

That may all be true, but if you look at the ads, he's portraying himself as a man with one issue: gay-bashing.

Perception is, if not everything, quite a bit of what persuades people to vote for a particular candidate.

Tutulady

October 18th, 2004, 06:04 PM

Tutulady

October 18th, 2004, 06:08 PM

What pzarquon said.Double ditto (to meet 10 character minimum requirement of this board. LOL)

Tutulady

October 18th, 2004, 06:09 PM

In response to my saying I see a single-issue candidate, Hanai said:

That may all be true, but if you look at the ads, he's portraying himself as a man with one issue: gay-bashing.

Perception is, if not everything, quite a bit of what persuades people to vote for a particular candidate.My sentiments exactly.

hanai

October 18th, 2004, 08:38 PM

Here, here! I am in his district and won't vote for him because HE IS A ONE ISSUE CANDIDATE.

Sounds like you're a one issue voter, that all you care about is whether a candidate promotes homosexual 'marriage' or not. Councilman Gabbard, for Distict 1 Waia'nae Coast, has done alot of work on all the issues, such as protectin the enivronment, hawaii's water, fighting ice, and stopping the theft of hawaiian homelands, see http://www.supportbill53.com. So its highly DISHONEST to call him a one-issue candidate, shame on you guys.

Your little posts attacking Mike's stance on marriage isn't going to affect reality, because out in real life, real Hawaii, most people agree with Mike and in fact hugely respect him for his public service in that and other areas.

Case was elected by 9% of the voters in the special-election, and he is very ineffective he only passed 1 bill (renaming a post office on maui) out of 20 bills!!!

Gabbard is endorsed by the Speaker of the House Dennis Hastert, Gabbard's bills willl be passed thur congress instead of failed like Case's, so he can effectively represent Hawaii's concerns on reforming Education, fighting ice, protecting the envrionment. And yes, protecting the family, which is the cornerstone to our society and a big part of hawaii's ohana culture of aloha.

In the liberal countries of Europe where homosexual marriage is legal, the rates of heterosexual marriages have dropped hugely with a high percentage (higher than US