Lingle Opens Maui Headquarters in Wailuku

MauiNow.com

By Rodney S. Yap

Former Governor Linda Lingle returned to the Valley Isle on Tuesday for the opening of her Maui headquarters in her campaign for US Senate.

The former Maui mayor was surrounded by volunteers, friends and family at the Wailuku headquarters located on the corner of Church and Main streets. Multiple blessings were given before the doors were officially opened.

About 160 people attended the event according to Lingle’s Maui Campaign Manager Stephanie Aveiro.

The Maui location will be open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Lingle is planning to open other headquarters around the state over the next several weeks.

The Maui office will be co-managed by Kalei Sombelon and Barbara Baisa.

For more information call 295-0220.

For immediate release: May 15, 2012 

SUPPORTERS STATEWIDE JOIN IN CELEBRATING

GOVERNOR LINGLE’S BIRTHDAY

 HONOLULU – In celebration of her 59th birthday, Governor Linda Lingle will be honored by supporters at Birthday Bash events on the Big Island, Maui, Kauai and Oahu. The statewide celebrations will provide an opportunity to come together for food, music, entertainment and great friends in support of Governor Lingle’s campaign for Hawaii’s open U.S. Senate seat.

“I am grateful and honored that so many supporters will attend our statewide Birthday Bash events as a way to show support for my Senate campaign. I look forward to reconnecting with my ‘ohana and friends across the islands and am always humbled by the outpouring of support I receive at our Birthday Bash parties,” said Governor Lingle. “Events like these energize our supporters and give me the opportunity to speak personally with voters about issues important to them, their families and businesses,” Governor Lingle added.

Details for the statewide Birthday Bash events are as follows:

Hilo Birthday Bash, in conjunction with official Hilo Headquarters Grand Opening

Tuesday, May 29 – 4:30-7:00PM
Hilo Campaign Headquarters
1177 Kilauea Avenue
ONLINE RSVP: https://secure.donationreport.com/productlist.html?key=ALMGIMPNSLG1
Kona Birthday Bash, in conjunction with official Kona Headquarters Grand Opening

Wednesday, May 30 – 5:00-7:30PM
Kona Campaign Headquarters
75-5483 Kaiwi Street
ONLINE RSVP: https://secure.donationreport.com/productlist.html?key=RCUJESAVJSKA
Kauai Birthday Bash

Thursday, May 31 – 5:00-7:00PM
Kauai Beach Resort
ONLINE RSVP: https://secure.donationreport.com/productlist.html?key=OJOXIMTDVHQE
Maui Birthday Bash

Tuesday, June 5 – 6:00-8:00PM
Wailea Marriot Resort
ONLINE RSVP: https://secure.donationreport.com/productlist.html?key=7YDLAXVSSRY2
Oahu Birthday Bash

Wednesday, June 6 – 5:30-7:30PM
Hilton Hawaiian Village Coral Ballroom
ONLINE RSVP: https://secure.donationreport.com/productlist.html?key=RDOUIGKNMKTH

For additional information, visit: http://www.lingle2012.com/events/; email: info@lingle2012 or call: 808-777-8845

# # # #

Media contacts:

Lenny Klompus
Communications Director
Linda Lingle Senate Committee
Phone: 808-386-4001
Email: lenny@lingle2012.com

Corrie Heck
Deputy Communications Director
Linda Lingle Senate Committee
Phone: 808-351-3865
Email: corrie@lingle2012.com

MAUI HEADQUARTERS OPENING A SUCCESS

Mahalo to all who came out to support Governor Linda Lingle’s campaign for U.S. Senate at the Headquarters opening in Wailuku on the Valley Isle, Tuesday evening May 15, 2012.

Tonight was an example of what Governor Lingle’s campaign is all about – grassroots volunteers from across Maui came together to transform a building into a gathering place for our family and friends. The set-up was great, the food ono, and most importantly, the fellowship wonderful. Multiple blessings–Buddhist, Christian, Jewish and Hawaiian highlighted the opening ceremonies, followed by lively conversation with friends old and new. The atmosphere was spirited and a sure sign that we’re off to a wonderful start. . Photos from this successful event are posted in our gallery and on our Facebook page!

With the completion of this headquarters opening, our momentum is building as we look forward to more headquarters on our other islands in the following weeks.

The Maui Headquarters is located at: 2086 Main Street, on the corner of Church and Main Streets.

For more information or to get involved on Maui, e-mail Stephanie Aveiro at Stephanie@Lingle2012.com or call 777-8845.

Birthday Bash!

Please join us in
celebrating Governor
Linda Lingle’s Birthday!

Kaua’i Beach Resort
4331 Kauai Beach Dr.
Lihue, HI 96766

Thursday, May 31, 2012
5:00 P.M.-7:00 P.M.

$40/Person

Heavy Pupus
Entertainment
Aloha Attire

For information:
Phone: 808-332-7373
Email: info@lingle2012.com

To register and buy your tickets online, click here: https://secure.donationreport.com/productlist.html?key=OJOXIMTDVHQE

For immediate release: May 14, 2012

Gov. Lingle Urges Passage of Congressional Legislation

HONOLULU – They sniff out bombs, patrol dangerous explosive zones, and put themselves in harm’s way to protect our soldiers. Yet military working dogs are currently classified as “equipment” by the Pentagon and are sometimes left behind and forgotten.

Former Governor Linda Lingle, candidate for Hawaii’s open U.S. Senate seat, today announced her support for a bipartisan effort in Congress to recognize the important role military working dogs play today and to give them the respect and treatment they have earned.

Governor Lingle is pledging her support for S. 2134, introduced by Senator Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, and H.R. 4103, introduced by Congressman Walter Jones of North Carolina, to reclassify military working dogs from “equipment” to “canine members of the Armed Forces.” These pending bills would allow the use of frequent flyer miles to facilitate the adoption of a military working dog and would set up a non-profit organization to provide medical care for retired military animals. Additionally, the Congressional proposals would establish a recognition system for military working dogs killed in the line of duty and meritorious service awards for exceptional bravery on the part of a military dog.

“All of us who are animal lovers understand the importance of animals to our personal and family well-being. The life-saving role these canines play for our men and women in uniform is above and beyond the service of a pet. I am pleased to lend my support for these bills and if I am given the honor of becoming your next Senator I will work to get them passed,” Governor Linda Lingle stated. “Recognizing the bravery and heroism of our four-legged members of the Armed Services is long over-due and demonstrates our humanity and respect for their abilities, sometimes in the midst of horrific situations.”

“I cannot thank Governor Lingle enough for lending her prestige and support to this Congressional initiative,” said Lisa Phillips, a former military veterinarian technician who spearheads national efforts to take care of military working dogs. “Governor Lingle’s support will help us in our work with the Department of Defense and officials across the nation to ensure these incredible animals are not abandoned in a war zone.”

“I am proud that Governor Linda Lingle has proclaimed her support for these bills,” stated Danya Schiappa, a member of Pet Lovers for Linda Lingle, a broad coalition of people who support candidates who put people and pets first. “It is Linda Lingle’s type of leadership on a wide variety of issues that inspired me to join her coalition for pet lovers,” Ms. Schiappa added.

Currently S. 2134, Canine Members of the Arms Services Act, introduced by Senator Blumenthal on February 27, 2012 is pending referral to a Senate Committee. The companion measure, H. R. 4103, introduced by Rep. Jones was referred to the House Committee on the Armed Services on February 28, 2012. Both bills rely on donations and contributions to pay for the medical care for military working dogs and do not include the use of taxpayer funds to carry out their purposes.

For more information on Pet Lovers for Lingle, visit the coalition on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PetLoversForLingle.

# # # #

Paid for by Linda Lingle Senate Committee

I hope your week is going well. We’ve got some exciting events this week, and in addition to that we’re preparing for a very special, important guest later this month.

First – we had a Grand Opening celebration of our Maui Headquarters in Wailuku last night. It was a great success! Be sure to check out our Facebook page for some early photos, and we’ll be sharing more soon as they filter in. The Headquarters address is 2086 Main Street, on the corner of Church and Main Streets. If you’re on the Valley Isle, please consider stopping by the HQ. Or you can also contact our Maui Grassroots Coordinator Stephanie Aveiro at Stephanie@Lingle2012.com for more information or to get your T-shirts, bumper stickers, signs, and find out about lots of other fun activities planned there.

Last night’s festivities were part of the growing momentum which will continue until Election Day! We hope you will also join us for more upcoming events on Maui:

The first of these events is a luncheon with Gov. Lingle featuring special guest Congressman Tom Cole on Tuesday, May 22 at the Wailuku Tropical Plantation. Cong. Cole is a noted leader on small business issues and is the only Native American in Congress, bringing a unique perspective to Hawaii’s culture. You don’t want to miss this opportunity! Seating is limited but there is still time to reserve your table or seats; please click here to reserve today. Click HERE for the invitation.

Also, I am excited to invite you to join me in celebrating Gov. Lingle’s 59th birthday on Wednesday, June 5 at the Wailea Marriott Resort. Her birthday celebration will provide an opportunity to come together for food, music, entertainment and great friends in support of her campaign for Hawaii’s open U.S. Senate seat. We hope you can join us in celebration!

Congressman Cole will be at events here in Hawaii May 21-23, and we will be having three special luncheons on three islands:

May 21 will be in Kona on the Big Island, May 22 will be in Wailuku on Maui, and May 23 will be at the Ala Moana Hotel on Oahu. Tell your friends! It’s an opportunity you and they won’t want to miss. Click here for event details: http://www.lingle2012.com/events/

Until next time.

Best,
Bob Lee
Campaign Manager
Linda Lingle Senate Committee

I hope you had a chance to read the terrific article that ran in West Hawaii Today yesterday. If you didn’t, take a look at it here: http://www.lingle2012.com/media-coverage/wht-details-gov-lingles-record-of-bipartisanship/ .

I think one of the key points of Governor Lingle’s talk at the Kona Rotary luncheon was her commitment to bipartisanship as a way forward to help our country. We all know Governor’s long record of success in working across party aisles to get things done for Hawaii, and she can bring that ability to compromise to Washington to help cure the partisan gridlock that holds sway there.

One key topic that Governor focused on in Kona was Social Security, which she pointed out is in need of reform. Governor has taken the stand of making sure our government keeps the promises made to those people who have been paying into it for decades and for those who are depending on it now. But Governor does support making changes effective for people with at least 25 years to go before retirement, so people 37 and younger. Cost of living allowances for Social Security now exceed inflation, which is one concern, she said, and she proposes means testing, and withholding Social Security benefits from people who earn more than a certain threshold.

There’s much more to the article that presents important elements of Governor’s campaign for U.S. Senate and clearly show she is the only candidate with a proven record of bipartisan success and a commitment and focus on the critical issues we face.

Enjoy your weekend and until next time.

Best,
Bob Lee
Campaign Manager
Linda Lingle Senate Committee

By Erin Miller
West Hawaii Today
emiller@westhawaiitoday.com

Luncheon Chair
Georgina Kawamura

Ala Moana Hotel
Garden Lanai Room

Wednesday, May 23, 2012
12:00-1:30 P.M.

Cong. Cole is a member of the Committee on Appropriations, where he is the Vice Chair of the Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs, and serves on the Subcommittee on Defense and Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies. He also serves on the Committee on the Budget.

For immediate release: May 10, 2012

“In a recent email to supporters, Mazie Hirono’s campaign manager blasted the U.S. Chamber of Commerce – the world’s largest business organization with more than 3 million member businesses – for formally endorsing Gov. Lingle’s campaign for U.S. Senate. In her statement, Mazie’s team once again called the organization ‘a powerful right-wing mainland special interest group.’ This charge is disingenuous and even laughable coming from Mazie, considering just a few months ago she proudly touted to the people of Hawaii that the Visit USA Act which she co-sponsored was backed by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

“With jobs and the economy being the most important issue facing our state and nation, the U.S. Chamber is backing a candidate that is focused on the issues and has a plan to get our economy back on the right track.  Meanwhile, Mazie Hirono’s only focus is on personal attacks and the D.C.-style, insider politics she knows so well.  Her latest missive is not surprising to the people of Hawaii, as it is simply the latest example of what the public knows already: Mazie puts partisan politics before people.

“Mazie believes it is more politically expedient to try and disavow her past expressions of support for this group now that they formally endorse Linda Lingle’s bipartisan record. The people of Hawaii know that Gov. Lingle is the only candidate who is committed to developing bipartisan solutions which will grow Hawaii’s and our nation’s economy.

“The choice couldn’t be more clear for the voters of Hawaii: A candidate who blindly follows the dictates of her national party’s agenda and repeatedly recites their misguided personal attacks; or Gov. Linda Lingle who is a courageous, independent leader who always puts Hawaii’s “people first” ahead of blind political party loyalty,” Lee added.

####

Media Contacts:

Lenny Klompus
Communications Director
Linda Lingle Senate Committee
Email: lenny@lingle2012.com
Phone: 808-386-4001
Corrie Heck
Deputy Communications Director
Linda Lingle Senate Committee
Email: corrie@lingle2012.com
Phone: 808-351-3865

HONOLULU – Former Governor Linda Lingle, candidate for Hawaii’s open U.S. Senate seat, released the following statement today regarding the endorsement she has received from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

“I recently received word that the U.S. Chamber of Commerce is officially endorsing my campaign for Hawaii’s open U.S. Senate seat.  As the nation’s leading organization that supports America’s small businesses – with over three million member businesses – I am honored and humbled by their support.

“I am also pleased the U.S. Chamber has backed up their endorsement with a television schedule that reinforces my bipartisan position on growing our local economy.

“Like me, the U.S. Chamber recognizes that the time for partisan bickering is over. We must work together to establish bipartisan solutions that will help boost our economy.  For Hawaii, these bipartisan solutions must start with a plan to increase tourism, which will grow our local economy and create jobs for our residents.

“If elected, I will utilize Hawaii’s unparalleled experience in the tourism industry to focus national attention on the importance of expanding and developing tourism to help drive America’s economic recovery. One component of my detailed plan is creating a standing subcommittee on tourism in the U.S. Senate.  To read my full plan, please visit: http://www.lingle2012.com/visitor-industry/.”

# # # #

Media Contacts:

Lenny Klompus
Communications Director
Linda Lingle Senate Committee
Email: lenny@lingle2012.com
Phone: 808-386-4001

Corrie Heck
Deputy Communications Director
Linda Lingle Senate Committee
Email: corrie@lingle2012.com
Phone: 808-351-3865

HONOLULU – Former Governor Linda Lingle, candidate for Hawaii’s open U.S. Senate seat, released the following statement today regarding the endorsement she has received from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

“I recently received word that the U.S. Chamber of Commerce is officially endorsing my campaign for Hawaii’s open U.S. Senate seat.  As the nation’s leading organization that supports America’s small businesses – with over three million member businesses – I am honored and humbled by their support.

“I am also pleased the U.S. Chamber has backed up their endorsement with a television schedule that reinforces my bipartisan position on growing our local economy.

“Like me, the U.S. Chamber recognizes that the time for partisan bickering is over. We must work together to establish bipartisan solutions that will help boost our economy.  For Hawaii, these bipartisan solutions must start with a plan to increase tourism, which will grow our local economy and create jobs for our residents.

“If elected, I will utilize Hawaii’s unparalleled experience in the tourism industry to focus national attention on the importance of expanding and developing tourism to help drive America’s economic recovery. One component of my detailed plan is creating a standing subcommittee on tourism in the U.S. Senate.  To read my full plan, please visit: http://www.lingle2012.com/visitor-industry/.”

# # # #

Media Contacts:

Lenny Klompus
Communications Director
Linda Lingle Senate Committee
Email: lenny@lingle2012.com
Phone: 808-386-4001

Corrie Heck
Deputy Communications Director
Linda Lingle Senate Committee
Email: corrie@lingle2012.com
Phone: 808-351-3865

Please join us in

Celebrating Governor

Linda Lingle’s Birthday!

Hilton Hawaiian Village

2005 Kalia Road

Honolulu, HI 96815

June 6, 2012

5:30-7:30 P.M.

For information:

Phone: 777-8845

Email: info@lingle2012.com

Birthday Bash!

Please join us in
celebrating Governor
Linda Lingle’s Birthday!

Wailea Marriott Resort
3700 Wailea Alanui.
Wailea, HI 96753

June 5, 2012
6:00-8:00 P.M.

For information:
Phone: 777-8845
Email: info@lingle2012.com

Please join us in
celebrating Governor
Linda Lingle’s Birthday!

Kona Campaign Headquarters
75-5483 Kaiwi St
Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

May 30, 2012
5:00-7:30 P.M

Enock Freire, Event Chair

For information:
Phone: 777-8845
Email: info@lingle2012.com

Please join us in
celebrating Governor
Linda Lingle’s Birthday!

Hilo Campaign Headquarters
1177 Kilauea Ave.
Hilo, HI 96720

May 29, 2012
4:30-7:00 PM

Della Yamashiro, Event Chair

For information:
Phone: 808-961-5123
Email: info@lingle2012.com

Click here: https://secure.donationreport.com/productlist.html?key=ALMGIMPNSLG1

HONOLULU  - Governor Linda Lingle, candidate for Hawaii’s open U.S. Senate seat, released the following statement today on the recent passing of Shiro Matsuo.

“Hawaii has lost a strong community leader and a role model for small businesses everywhere. Franz Shiro Matsuo was a friend and supporter of mine for several years. I’ll never forget his warm smile and aloha spirit.

“Shiro’s life story is one of perseverance and determination, as he came from humble beginnings, faced adversity, and yet achieved his dreams and aspirations. And, he honored our country by serving proudly during WWII with the famed 442nd Regimental Combat Team.

“My condolences go out to his ‘ohana, employees and countless friends who had the honor of spending time with this unique and wonderful man who always dreamed big, worked hard, had fun and represented our State in such a special way. He will be missed!”

# # # #

Media Contacts:

Lenny Klompus
Communications Director
Linda Lingle Senate Committee
Email: lenny@lingle2012.com
Phone: 808-386-4001

 
Corrie Heck
Deputy Communications Director
Linda Lingle Senate Committee
Email: corrie@lingle2012.com
Phone: 808-351-3865

NATIVE AMERICAN AND SMALL BUSINESS LEADER U.S. CONGRESSMAN TOM COLE TO VISIT HAWAII

HONOLULU - Former Governor Linda Lingle, candidate for Hawaii’s open U.S. Senate seat, will host U.S. Congressman Tom Cole, a small business leader and the only Native American in the U.S. House of Representatives, at a special luncheon at the Ala Moana Hotel on Wednesday, May 23 from 12:00 – 1:30 p.m.

“Congressman Cole has been a strong, clear voice for indigenous people in Washington, D.C. since he began serving the people of Oklahoma 10 years ago. As a Congressman and member of the Chickasaw Nation, Congressman Cole has made providing indigenous people, including native Hawaiians, the means for self-determination, self-governance and self-reliance a legislative priority,” said Gov. Linda Lingle.

“Congressman Cole and I share interests beyond federal recognition of native Hawaiians, including the Congressman’s commitment to encouraging private sector economic growth. As a former business owner, Congressman Cole knows firsthand the integral role that our small businesses play in the speed and strength of our economic recovery,” Gov. Lingle added.

Oklahoma’s Fourth District voters first elected Tom Cole to represent them in the U.S. House of Representatives in 2002. Since that time Congressman Cole has earned a national reputation as a thoughtful and effective leader. As a former business owner and representative for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Congressman Cole has been a tireless advocate for small businesses. Additionally, as the only Native American (an enrolled member of the Chickasaw Nation) in the U.S. House of Representatives, Congressman Cole has aggressively worked for federal support of Native American self-governance and economic development, including co-sponsoring House legislation to create a native Hawaiian government.

Congressman Cole is a member of the Committee on Appropriations, where he is the Vice Chair of the Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs, and serves on the Subcommittee on Defense and Subcommittee on Interior, Environment and Related Agencies. He also serves on the Committee on the Budget.

For more information or to secure a ticket to the luncheon, please contact Kari Hofer at Kari@Lingle2012.com, (808) 298-8057.

Additional events with special guest Congressman Cole are planned, including a special luncheon at the King Kamehameha Hotel in Kona on Monday, May 21 from 11:45 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., and a special luncheon at the Maui Tropical Plantation in Wailuku on Tuesday, May 22 from 11:45 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

We are honored to have the distinguished United States Congressman from Oklahoma, Tom Cole, join us as a special guest at a luncheon honoring Gov. Linda Lingle. Congressman Tom Cole is a nationally recognized small business leader and the only Native American in the U.S. House of Representatives.

We hope you will be able to join us for a thoughtful discussion of the issues facing Maui’s communities. Please see the formal invitation below and click here to reserve your seats or table today.

Aloha,

Linda Lingle Senate Committee

\

We are honored to have the distinguished United States Congressman from Oklahoma, Tom Cole, join us as a special guest at a luncheon honoring Gov. Linda Lingle. Congressman Tom Cole is a nationally recognized small business leader and the only Native American in the U.S. House of Representatives.

We hope you will be able to join us for a thoughtful discussion of the issues facing the Kona community. Please see the formal invitation below and click here to reserve your seats or table today.

Aloha,

Linda Lingle Senate Committee

.

Aloha:

We had a very exciting and productive weekend with Governor Lingle.  She enjoyed the opportunity to visit folks on the Big Island.

She sat down with members of the Hawaii Island Board of Realtors to answer their pointed questions about her positions, specifically how she plans to help Hawaii’s economy back on track.

We all know the drubbing housing prices have taken over the past few years, and Realtors are acutely aware of the pain American families have felt since the Fall of 2008. Housing is one of those “lynchpin” sectors of our economy, which drives so many other aspects.

The meeting with Realtors brought a tremendous response. They were extremely interested in and supportive of Governor’s commitment to bipartisanship. They also want to see her work on issues like tax reform, cutting down on insurance fraud, regulation reform, and immigration reform.

There are a variety of needs we need to focus on in order to get our country’s economy rolling again.   That’s one of the main reasons Gov. Lingle should be our next U.S. Senator. She understands what needs to be accomplished in Washington on the complex issues of the day and will bring common-sense solutions to the dialogue.

You can see a short video clip on one aspect – rules and regulations – and how Governor believes we can use it to help the economy.  http://youtube/DyN_Jd1It9Q

On Saturday at the Filipino Fiesta at Kapiolani Park, Governor Lingle and the grassroots team met hundreds of supporters, especially our younger generation.  They talked story about their future and what lays ahead for them. The momentum in our campaign is building “on the ground.”

Yesterday Governor Lingle was on Coconut Island (Hilo) at the Hula Huli event meeting with members of the community while visiting numerous vendor booths.  We signed up many new supporters.

I hope your week gets off to a great start.

Until next time,

Bob Lee,
Campaign Manager
Linda Lingle Senate Committee

Aloha and welcome to the weekend,

As the deadline for Congress to find a solution to the student loan rate situation draws near, it’s a another example to voters about how dysfunctional and counterproductive the current climate in Washington, D.C. has become.

This statement is reflected in the abysmal approval ratings of U.S. Congress, currently in the low teens or even lower, depending on which poll you subscribe to today. The bottom line is simple: Voters are sick and tired of the hyper-partisanship, and the debate over student loan rates only fuels the flames of dissatisfaction.

What’s truly maddening is how both sides agree that something needs to be done, but they’re not really interested in solutions. If they were, they would need only look at recent headlines about millions of dollars in Medicare fraud which could likely form the basis of a solution. In a single day, federal agents and prosecutors filed charges that identified nearly half a billion dollars worth of fraud.

Yearly, analysts estimate that Medicare fraud costs taxpayers between $80 billion and $160 billion per year. The cost to fund the student loan subsidies in question for a single year? $6 billion.

It’s a no-brainer! Congress should be looking at recovering or eliminating Medicare fraud, while looking to help our students with college loans. But it seems they aren’t interested in solutions, but in simply gaining political mileage.

We need to send Governor Linda Lingle to Washington, D.C. this November. She would never waste valuable time on counterproductive activities and her proven record of always putting Hawaii’s “people first” backs this statement up. Governor would work with whomever is willing to pitch in and solve the challenges we face, regardless of political affiliation, because she’s not interested in taking credit, or currying political favor, or gaining political leverage — all she seeks are common-sense solutions that help Hawaii residents.

I know you agree and, therefore join us as we work to elect Gov. Lingle as our next U.S. Senator. Click here to get the ball rolling by registering with our campaign, and together we can make a difference: http://www.lingle2012.com/volunteer-hawaii-senator/

Best,
Bob Lee
Campaign Manager
Linda Lingle Senate Committee

STATEMENT FROM GOV. LINGLE ON HAWAII CLEAN ENERGY INITIATIVE LEGACY

HONOLULU – Former Governor Linda Lingle, candidate for Hawaii’s open U.S. Senate seat, released the following statement today regarding the progress of the Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative.

“I am encouraged that yesterday the Hawaii State Legislature passed SB 2785, which establishes a regulatory framework for the private investment in, and development of, an inter-island electricity transmission cable.

“Energy security for our state, its residents and businesses as well as for our U.S. military was a cornerstone of my administration’s Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative (HCEI) initiated in 2008, on the heels of our Energy for Tomorrow plan implemented in 2006.

“As the most isolated land mass on our planet, Hawaii continues to be too dependent on outside sources of energy. The traditional electrical grids on our main islands are isolated from each other. Should a natural or man-made disruption occur and affect our imported energy supply, or should one of our island grids go down, we have no mutual back-up or redundancy capabilities. Our residents and businesses would be stranded and our U.S. military potentially crippled.

“That is why my Administration advocated and initiated the inter-island cable project, which would be the backbone of the long-envisioned state-wide energy grid. The legislation passed yesterday is another step in the direction toward our state’s energy security.

“A state-wide grid, together with the ‘smart grid’ projects such as the one on Maui, was but one component of HCEI.  HCEI was a comprehensive policy and regulatory initiative that fundamentally addressed traditional and renewable electricity generation, energy efficiency, transportation energy and technologies and energy transmission and delivery.

“As a United States Senator, I will continue to work toward Hawaii’s and our nation’s energy security.”

Read more about Gov. Lingle’s energy plan at http://www.lingle2012.com/energy-hawaii/

Aloha Friends,

While Congress agrees that the federal government should continue to subsidize Stafford loans, effectively keeping the student interest rate at 3.4%, the House and Senate remains gridlocked on how to pay for this roughly $6 billion needed to keep rates low for students.  It is at critical junctures such as these that we need our elected representatives at the table and casting their vote for our Hawaii’s students.

Unfortunately, the people of Hawaii were disenfranchised in the critical vote on H.R. 4628 because Mazie Hirono skipped out on it to hit the campaign trail on the mainland. Only after her absence was questioned by Hawaii’s people did Hirono’s campaign attempt to explain her absence:

“To ensure our families can continue to afford the cost of college, it’s critical that Mazie runs the strongest possible Senate campaign. We need to win this Senate seat so our next Senator shares Hawaii’s values.”

As the only explanation our sitting Congresswoman has for the people of Hawaii, we are left to conclude that Hirono is more concerned with running her campaign than she is with doing the job she was elected by the people of Hawaii to perform. That is not the Hawaii way.

To keep the cost of college affordable for our families, the people of Hawaii need their elected leaders to fight for our values — not when it’s convenient for them, or when it fits into their schedule, but when the issue is ripe and before Congress for a vote.

The people of Hawaii know these actions to be inexcusable, and we expected more from a sitting Congresswoman.

As the former State Adjutant General for Hawaii and a retired soldier, I have come to know many strong leaders, and I know that Governor Linda Lingle is the proven and steady leader Hawaii’s people need. As the candidate who has always put Hawaii’s “people first,” Governor Lingle has the leadership we need to represent Hawaii in the U.S. Senate.

Best,
Bob Lee
Campaign Manager
Linda Lingle Senate Committee

Previous Morning Coffee, published May 2, 2012:

“Hawaii Congresswoman Skips Student Loan Vote”

Aloha Friends,

An issue that has drawn national and local attention recently is the possibility that student loan interest rates could double if the U.S. Congress does not find common ground and solutions to the rising cost of this important loan program.

The tragic irony is that both political parties agree that they do not want Stafford loan interest rates to double. Republicans and Democrats agree that a doubling of interest rates would dramatically increase the financial burden on low- to moderate-income students working to achieve a college degree.

Thousands of students in Hawaii join the 7 million students across our nation, who are directly impacted by these ongoing discussions, so it is very important that our members of Congress be present and participate in the dialogue to find a solution.

With the interest rate on Stafford student loans set to jump by 100%, members of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives are discussing a one-year extension of the lower interest rate to buy time to work out a more comprehensive approach.

So the question is: where was Mazie Hirono when a vote was held on the Stafford proposal?  Her campaign reported she was busy on the campaign trail. And unashamed about it!

In a statement to a local reporter, Hirono’s spokesperson said that her campaign travel itinerary took precedence over her duty as a Congresswoman to vote on behalf of the people of Hawaii.  I don’t begrudge her opinion that the proposal did not fit with her personal beliefs, but I do find it objectionable that she isn’t upholding her sworn duty to discuss and vote on a bill of such importance. Campaigning over fulfilling her obligations and duties?  This is not leadership.

Folks, we can’t afford this type of dereliction of duty, and we can’t afford to have elected leaders who are unable to find common ground with people of different political parties.

Governor Linda Lingle knows what it’s like to be in the political minority, but still be able to find bipartisan solutions that help the people of Hawaii. She has devoted 30 years of public service to putting ”people first.” This is why she’s running for the open U.S. Senate seat, and why she is the clear choice to be our next U.S. Senator.

Governor Lingle would bring to our nation’s capital a balanced, thoughtful perspective that recognizes the need to come together and find long-term solutions that don’t try to turn a crisis into a political weapon.

I am sure you agree, and now it’s a great time join the Linda Lingle Senate Committee. Sign up today at http://www.lingle2012.com/volunteer-hawaii-senator/

Best,
Bob Lee
Campaign Manager
Linda Lingle Senate Committee

Aloha Friends,

An issue that has drawn national and local attention recently is the possibility that student loan interest rates could double if the U.S. Congress does not find common ground and solutions to the rising cost of this important loan program.

The tragic irony is that both political parties agree that they do not want Stafford loan interest rates to double. Republicans and Democrats agree that a doubling of interest rates would dramatically increase the financial burden on low- to moderate-income students working to achieve a college degree.

Thousands of students in Hawaii join the 7 million students across our nation, who are directly impacted by these ongoing discussions, so it is very important that our members of Congress be present and participate in the dialogue to find a solution.

With the interest rate on Stafford student loans set to jump by 100%, members of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives are discussing a one-year extension of the lower interest rate to buy time to work out a more comprehensive approach.

So the question is: where was Mazie Hirono when a vote was held on the Stafford proposal?  Her campaign reported she was busy on the campaign trail. And unashamed about it!

In a statement to a local reporter, Hirono’s spokesperson said that her campaign travel itinerary took precedence over her duty as a Congresswoman to vote on behalf of the people of Hawaii.  I don’t begrudge her opinion that the proposal did not fit with her personal beliefs, but I do find it objectionable that she isn’t upholding her sworn duty to discuss and vote on a bill of such importance. Campaigning over fulfilling her obligations and duties?  This is not leadership.

Folks, we can’t afford this type of dereliction of duty, and we can’t afford to have elected leaders who are unable to find common ground with people of different political parties.

Governor Linda Lingle knows what it’s like to be in the political minority, but still be able to find bipartisan solutions that help the people of Hawaii. She has devoted 30 years of public service to putting ”people first.” This is why she’s running for the open U.S. Senate seat, and why she is the clear choice to be our next U.S. Senator.

Governor Lingle would bring to our nation’s capital a balanced, thoughtful perspective that recognizes the need to come together and find long-term solutions that don’t try to turn a crisis into a political weapon.

I am sure you agree, and now it’s a great time join the Linda Lingle Senate Committee. Sign up today at http://www.lingle2012.com/volunteer-hawaii-senator/

Best,
Bob Lee
Campaign Manager
Linda Lingle Senate Committee

We’ve just concluded another great weekend with the campaign. Gov. Lingle really enjoyed putting community and education first, participating in events at Kaiser High School, Waipio Soccer Complex, and the Hawaiian Humane Society.

At Kaiser, Governor told me how honored she was to be the keynote speaker at their International Baccalaureate diploma ceremony. This program was one of the first established in our entire state and is a tremendous opportunity for students there to learn an advanced curriculum that gives them a leg up on preparing for the 21st century work force.

Saturday morning was also a chance to give back to the community, as Gov. Lingle pitched in with many others at Waipio Soccer Complex, cleaning up and painting facilities there. One thing about Hawaii is that we all feel that sense of community and responsibility to each other.

Paws and Patriots at the Hawaiian Humane Society was a great time too, sharing the joy of pets with our esteemed military who attended, and hearing heartwarming stories about pets and the happiness they bring to our brave men and women who protect our freedoms. Gov. Lingle’s administration was critical in changing some of the old animal quarantine laws in a way that made it far better for pets and their owners who move here. Governor is a pet lover through and through: Just peruse some of the photos on the Pet Lovers for Lingle 2012 Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/PetLoversForLingle ) and you’ll see some furry animals that belong to her.

Recent events have highlighted the need to re-evaluate TSA policies and practices, and Gov. Lingle issued a statement emphasizing her leadership on this issue. If elected to the U.S. Senate, she will support Congressional investigation efforts into the TSA policies and guidelines and will advocate for practices that maintain security while not sacrificing the personal dignity of our residents and visitors. Read her full statement here: http://www.lingle2012.com/news-releases/gov-lingle-on-transportation-security-administration/

I hope your week gets off to a great start. Be sure to stay tuned to our Events section and social media for campaign activities near you. We’d love to meet you, talk story, and hear more about the issues that matter to you in this critical race.

Best,
Bob Lee
Campaign Manager
Linda Lingle Senate Committee

STATEMENT FROM GOV. LINGLE ON TRANSPORTATION SECURITY ADMINISTRATION

Gov. Lingle to Support Congressional Investigation of Transportation Security Administration Policies and Practices if Elected to U.S. Senate

“Former Governor Linda Lingle today announced that if she is elected to the U.S. Senate, she will support Congressional investigation efforts into the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) policies and practices.

“Keeping the people of Hawaii and our country safe is our number one priority. However, with this responsibility comes a duty to carry out public service with utmost integrity and judgment. Unfortunately, recent events highlight the need for a re-evaluation of the TSA’s policies and practices,” Gov. Linda Lingle said.

The TSA is under heightened scrutiny this week after it defended its agents who conducted a controversial pat down of a 4-year-old girl passing through a Wichita, Kansas airport.  The incident, combined with this week’s federal indictment and arrest of several current and former TSA agents on federal narcotics trafficking and bribery charges, has prompted federal officials to question the administration’s security policies and priorities.

“While I respect the work of TSA employees across our nation, instances such as these cross the line on common-sense security protocols, and cause Americans to lose trust in this important agency.

“If elected to the U.S. Senate, I will support Congressional investigation efforts into the TSA policies and guidelines and will advocate for practices that maintain security while not sacrificing the personal dignity of our residents and visitors.” Gov. Lingle added.

####

Well, it was more sour economic news that arrived on our doorsteps this past week. U.S. economic growth slowed to an anemic rate of 2.2%, Gallup polls show U.S. homeownership at a decade low, and Reuters reports that more than 1 million Americans who are recent homeowners are now underwater in their mortgages due to falling home prices. We must act now, and we cannot afford to wait.

We need common-sense, practical-minded leaders elected like Gov. Linda Lingle who will set aside political party labels and collaborate on solutions. Take for example the recent issue over student loans. Washington is so beset with corrosive partisanship that even when both sides agree that the student loan rates must not increase, they can’t find a solution without first lobbing caustic attacks in the press. I know you’re as tired of this counterproductive behavior from our leaders as I am.

So join us. Help us send Gov. Linda Lingle to Washington where she will put Hawaii’s “people first” ahead of blind political party loyalty. Visit http://www.lingle2012.com/volunteer-hawaii-senator/ and register to get connected and send a message that we want solutions, not partisan bickering.

Best,

Bob Lee
Campaign Manager
Linda Lingle Senate Committee

Location:
Hawaiian Humane Society
2700 Waialae Ave.

Time:
Starts 3 p.m.

Location:
Kaiser High School
(cafeteria)
511 Lunalilo Home Road
Honolulu, HI 96825

Time:
7-9 p.m.

I hope your week is going nicely as we approach the weekend. Did you have a chance to spend some time in Kailua for the annual I Love Kailua Day Party? We saw a tremendous outpouring of vocal support for Gov. Lingle who walked around the community fair for nearly three hours. It was easy to see how during Gov’s entire public career has always been about putting “people first.” Be sure to check out all the photos posted in an album on our campaign Facebook page: http://ow.ly/axxhm

Governor and I truly enjoyed Wednesday’s 59th Annual Eagle Scout Awarding Ceremony. We both had the immense privilege and honor to be paired up as sponsors with two fine young men who will be receiving this award for which they have worked so hard. They set excellent examples for others to follow in their community and are truly an inspiration of the potential for tomorrow’s generation.

Be sure to check out our Facebook page for all the great photos we’ve posted recently, including events like the Women’s Coalition Luncheon with Sen. Susan Collins, shots from the Lincoln Dinner, the Farrington High School 75th Anniversary Celebration, and the Healthy Kids Day at Bishop Museum: http://www.facebook.com/Lingle2012.

Enjoy your day, and until next time,

Best,
Bob Lee
Campaign Manager
Linda Lingle Senate Committee

That was quite a week we had. I heard from many of you who shared our frustration that in the midst of all-time Congressional disapproval ratings and governmental bodies that are paralyzed by partisan gridlock, our opponents would bring in someone who represents exactly the type of partisan, lockstep-voting record that is holding us back. You can read my letter that we sent out here: http://www.lingle2012.com/news-releases/letter-from-general-mazie-calls-hyperpartisan-friends/ .

I hope your weekend is going great. Be sure to come out to Kailua tomorrow for the annual I Love Kailua Town festival. It’s a great time to walk the cordoned-off streets of Kailua Town, sample local businesses, and enjoy spending time with our community there. Governor is very excited to head down to this fantastic fundraiser for the Lani-Kailua Outdoor Circle. Click here for full details: http://www.lanikailuaoutdoorcircle.org/index/Kailua_Town_Party

Best,
Bob Lee
Campaign Manager
Linda Lingle Senate Committee

Two of the GOP’s top-flight female candidates — former Rep. Heather Wilson in New Mexico and former Gov. Linda Lingle in Hawaii — also turned in winning performances.

Wilson, whose main primary opponent ended his campaign in February, outraised Democratic Rep. Martin Heinrich by $270,000. Lingle’s $1.3 million outpaced her chief Democratic rival, Rep. Mazie Hirono, by about $300,000.

Continue reading for full article:

Lessons from the Senate cash dash

By: David Catanese, Politico

Chalk up yet another fundraising victory for Democratic Senate candidates.

In the dozen most competitive contests across the country, Democrats once again collected more cash during the first three months of the year than Republicans, who are expected to wage an aggressive battle for the Senate majority.

It’s a development that further underscores why handicapping control of the upper chamber in 2013 is leaving even Washington’s most seasoned prognosticators stumped.

Here are POLITICO’s four takeaways from the first quarter’s dash for cash:

1. Who Runs The World? Girls.

The most impressive Senate tallies this month were produced by the fairer sex.

So if there truly is a war on women, this group of ladies will be armed for bear.

Consumer advocate and progressive heroine Elizabeth Warren easily topped GOP Sen. Scott Brown in Massachusetts, raising a staggering $6.9 million — the cycle’s best number yet — to lift her war chest to $11 million.

But while Warren is by far the most high-profile female candidate inspiring donors to dig deep into their pockets, she certainly isn’t the only one.

In the battleground Senate races of Missouri, Michigan and Wisconsin, incumbent Sens. Claire McCaskill and Debbie Stabenow and Rep. Tammy Baldwin each delivered head-turning performances.

Stabenow’s $1.5 million haul was in part due to the fallout from the controversial Superbowl ad aired by GOP opponent Pete Hoekstra, which featured a young Asian woman speaking in broken English to thank the second-term Democrat for her spending and borrowing policies.

Hoekstra’s donations dropped 30 percent over the period while Stabenow doubled him up, assembling her best quarter ever.

McCaskill, who arguably faces the toughest odds of any Democratic incumbent, piled up $2.3 million, easily blowing away her three GOP rivals combined. That marks the best first quarter number ever for a Missouri Senate candidate.

No Republican challenger in the Badger State came even within striking distance of the primary-less Baldwin’s $2 million tally.

In Nevada, Democratic Rep. Shelley Berkley’s nearly $1.4 million marked another personal best and placed her well ahead of GOP Sen. Dean Heller’s $1 million.

Two of the GOP’s top-flight female candidates — former Rep. Heather Wilson in New Mexico and former Gov. Linda Lingle in Hawaii — also turned in winning performances.

Wilson, whose main primary opponent ended his campaign in February, outraised Democratic Rep. Martin Heinrich by $270,000. Lingle’s $1.3 million outpaced her chief Democratic rival, Rep. Mazie Hirono, by about $300,000.

2. Warren Can Catch Brown

This is now the third straight quarter Warren has outraised Brown by a better than 2-to-1 margin, providing her the chance to accomplish an almost unfathomable goal for Democrats a year ago: financial parity.

Last summer, Brown sat on an almost $10 million cash-on-hand advantage. Since Warren entered the race seven months ago, the former Harvard professor has steadily shaved that lead down to $4 million.

Against most any other candidate, Brown’s $3.4 million first quarter would be categorized as a crushing figure. But Warren’s consistently proven she’s in her own orbit when it comes to collecting checks.

Over the past three quarters, she’s bested the freshman incumbent by an average of $2.5 million a period. If she’s able to keep up that frenetic pace, Warren could be nearly even with Brown by the fall — an important achievement considering the super PAC agreement that has sidelined progressive groups from parachuting into the Bay State on her behalf.

3. The Trend Isn’t Lugar’s Friend

Richard Mourdock, the Club For Growth and FreedomWorks-backed Senate candidate who is rapidly closing the polling gap in the Indiana GOP primary, managed to surpass six-term Sen. Dick Lugar in contributions for the quarter.

The difference was just $60,000 — a marginal amount, especially when considering the cascade of third-party money that’s been dumped into the race — but it still demonstrates how quickly Mourdock’s momentum has accelerated in recent weeks.

For example, in the fourth quarter closing Dec. 31., Lugar managed to trump Mourdock by an almost 2-to-1 margin in cash raised.

Mourdock’s $879,000 for the quarter represented his best showing to date and was likely enhanced by the national attention he’s attracted for an insurgent bid that is now seen as having a legitimate shot at upending the longtime incumbent.

With just $436,000 in the bank, Mourdock’s burn rate is high and he’s shouldering significant debt, but it would be foolish to discard this trend in a primary race that’s just three weeks away.

4. Self-Funding Wildcards Are Back

What do Carly Fiorina, Jeff Greene and Linda McMahon have in common? They were all self-funding candidates from the 2010 cycle who lack the title of senator.

The lesson: Plowing extraordinary amounts of your own cash into a campaign usually has diminishing returns.

But history be damned. There’s a new class of deep-pocketed contenders lining up in 2012 — and their success in primary races could alter the competitiveness of key contests this fall.

In Arizona, Democrats are counting on the $3 million of personal dough that Republican candidate Wil Cardon dropped into the campaign this quarter to bludgeon the front-running Rep. Jeff Flake. They believe a bruised and battered Flake would be far more vulnerable to an upset by former U.S. Surgeon General Richard Carmona, who brought in $800,000.

Similar scenarios are shaping up in Wisconsin, Missouri and Connecticut, where McMahon is back for another round.

Real-estate manager and investor Eric Hovde has made no bones about attempting to emulate the path of freshman Sen. Ron Johnson, one of the rare self-funding success stories in 2010.

Hovde pulled together $110,00 in just the first three weeks of his campaign, but it’s the $1.5 million personal investment that makes him a formidable player in the GOP primary contest with former Gov. Tommy Thompson and former Rep. Mark Neumann.

In Missouri, businessman John Brunner is also plugging considerable sums of money into a three-way GOP primary fight to overcome a name-recognition deficit. Former state treasurer Sarah Steelman, who leads in GOP primary polling there, also has access to personal wealth but observers in the Show-Me State see Brunner’s ability to easily write himself a seven-figure check as a potentially potent wild card in the race against McCaskill.

McMahon has signaled she’s going to be raising more of her money this time, but the $172,390 total she turned during the quarter obviously wasn’t even self-satisfactory.

She also loaned her campaign $965,000, bringing her total investment in the race for Sen. Joe Lieberman’s open seat to $1.7 million.

Polling has shown her GOP rival, former Rep. Chris Shays, to be more competitive in the general. While summoning the funds to match McMahon in the primary will be a daunting challenge, Shays did manage to outraise her this quarter, racking up $455,638 in receipts.

Excerpted from below:

Hawaii — In the contest for the open seat of retiring Democratic Sen. Daniel Akaka, Republicans recruited a candidate of distinction in Linda Lingle. Lingle is her adopted state’s first female governor, first Jewish governor and a newspaper entrepreneur. But she likely will be competing against popular Rep. Mazie Hirono on a ballot topped by Hawaii-born Obama, who won the Aloha State by 45 points four years ago. Despite polls showing a clear advantage for Hirono, the race is rated only “leans Democratic.”

Continue reading for full article:

WASHINGTON (MCT) — Sen. Claire McCaskill recently visited gas stations to argue that Congress should end subsidies for oil companies.

Larry Sabato, who directs the University of Virginia Center for Politics, rates the race to control the Senate as too close to call.

Massachusetts — Democrats’ best hope of capturing a GOP-held seat may be in the hands of consumer advocate and Harvard professor Elizabeth Warren. But incumbent Republican Scott Brown already defeated one popular woman (Martha Coakley) in a special election to fill the late Edward M. Kennedy’s seat. And Brown, one of his party’s most appealing new figures, has worked to separate himself from Republican orthodoxy in Washington, even posing for photos recently with Obama. The outcome will hinge on the sentiments of hundreds of thousands of voters who didn’t turn out when Brown won.

Wisconsin — Wisconsin, where the Aug. 14 primary is even later than Missouri’s Aug. 6 election, is another toss-up state where the winner in a Republican field even more crowded than Missouri’s will take on Democratic Rep. Tammy Baldwin. They will compete for the seat opened with the retirement of Democrat Herb Kohl. The GOP candidate — possibly former Gov. Tommy Thompson — will almost certainly take aim at Baldwin’s staunchly liberal credentials but will have less than three months to make the case.

Aloha Friend,

Mazie Hirono, one of Governor Linda Lingle’s potential opponents in the upcoming November General Election, simply does not understand that Hawaii needs elected leaders who put Hawaii’s interest over a national agenda and Democrat Party politics.

This week, Mazie brought Congressman Barney Frank to our state. Yes, the same Barney Frank who is one of the most partisan, divisive politicians in Washington, D.C. and whose decisions led to today’s abysmal state of our nation’s economy. The fact that she would host such a controversial politician like Barney Frank – touting him as her role model – is a direct contradiction of the mindset of the people of Hawaii and definitely not the type of leadership we need to move our state forward.

Barney Frank not only votes with his party 93% of the time, he was the Chair of the oversight committee for mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. In 2005, he stood on the House floor and said, “These two entities – Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac – are not facing any kind of financial crisis…” Was he simply uninformed or was he beholden to special interests? Either way, I don’t have to tell you what happened to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, because we are still feeling the impacts of the 2008 global economic crisis which began with their downfall. And, now Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are asking for more money from taxpayers.

If this is the type of leadership Mazie looks to follow if she is elected, then Hawaii and our nation are in for dark days ahead. Hirono and Frank are part of a Congress with the lowest favorable rating in our nation’s history, 12%. This distinction should be cause for embarrassment for Mazie and her friends who are Washington insiders. Mazie and Barney have chosen to arrogantly parade across the state asking for money from Hawaii residents when our economy, and Hawaii’s own home owners are still reeling from the impacts of their failed policies and lax oversight. This is not only sad, it’s self-serving and quite pathetic.

Even her fellow Democrat Ed Case recognizes that Barney Frank’s style of leadership is bad for our nation, stating, ”his and Mazie’s extreme-left fiscal and economic policies and endless partisan warfare are no more the solution for our country than the far right’s.”

For Mazie Hirono to happily and willingly host a politician who has figured so prominently in our country’s economic and political problems is simply an insult to the people of Hawaii.

Shame on Mazie for her actions!

With your support, we can prevent these types of leaders from taking our country further in a dysfunctional direction. Instead of the caustic, bitter fighting that we see from Barney Frank and his protege Mazie Hirono, Hawaii wants leaders who can put aside the partisan politics and will always put people first.

This is just one contrast in what you will see, hear and read in the next seven months of the campaign. On one hand, we have a choice of balance, executive, independent, bipartisan, common-sense solutions versus hyper-partisanship, gridlock and blind devotion to political party.

The choice is clear: We NEED Gov. Linda Lingle and her integrity and leadership as our next U.S. Senator.

Best,

Bob Lee
Campaign Manager
Linda Lingle Senate Committee

We recently redesigned the Issues section of our campaign website to be more user friendly and more detailed. These are topics that the voters tell Governor repeatedly are top of mind for them. Just as she always puts “people first,” we know she’s listening to you and addressing these issues because we can see how high an importance she has placed on making sure people know where she stands.

Go check out http://www.lingle2012.com/hawaii-issues-politics/  and be sure to share with your friends so that voters are informed.

I wanted to also share with you the contents of a very important letter I sent out to all of our registered supporters, earlier this week. If you didn’t receive it, it’s probably because you haven’t connected to our campaign yet. Don’t wait — go to http://www.lingle2012.com/volunteer-hawaii-senator/ and fill in your info.

Below is the letter. Enjoy your day and until next time,

Best,
Bob Lee
Campaign Manager
Linda Lingle Senate Committee

Aloha Friend,

Mazie Hirono, one of Governor Linda Lingle’s potential opponents in the upcoming November General Election, simply does not understand that Hawaii needs elected leaders who put Hawaii’s interest over a national agenda and Democrat Party politics.

This week, Mazie brought Congressman Barney Frank to our state. Yes, the same Barney Frank who is one of the most partisan, divisive politicians in Washington, D.C. and whose decisions led to today’s abysmal state of our nation’s economy. The fact that she would host such a controversial politician like Barney Frank – touting him as her role model – is a direct contradiction of the mindset of the people of Hawaii and definitely not the type of leadership we need to move our state forward.

Barney Frank not only votes with his party 93% of the time, he was the Chair of the oversight committee for mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. In 2005, he stood on the House floor and said, “These two entities – Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac – are not facing any kind of financial crisis…” Was he simply uninformed or was he beholden to special interests? Either way, I don’t have to tell you what happened to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, because we are still feeling the impacts of the 2008 global economic crisis which began with their downfall. And, now Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are asking for more money from taxpayers.

If this is the type of leadership Mazie looks to follow if she is elected, then Hawaii and our nation are in for dark days ahead. Hirono and Frank are part of a Congress with the lowest favorable rating in our nation’s history, 12%. This distinction should be cause for embarrassment for Mazie and her friends who are Washington insiders. Mazie and Barney have chosen to arrogantly parade across the state asking for money from Hawaii residents when our economy, and Hawaii’s own home owners are still reeling from the impacts of their failed policies and lax oversight. This is not only sad, it’s self-serving and quite pathetic.

Even her fellow Democrat Ed Case recognizes that Barney Frank’s style of leadership is bad for our nation, stating, ”his and Mazie’s extreme-left fiscal and economic policies and endless partisan warfare are no more the solution for our country than the far right’s.”

For Mazie Hirono to happily and willingly host a politician who has figured so prominently in our country’s economic and political problems is simply an insult to the people of Hawaii.

Shame on Mazie for her actions!

With your support, we can prevent these types of leaders from taking our country further in a dysfunctional direction. Instead of the caustic, bitter fighting that we see from Barney Frank and his protege Mazie Hirono, Hawaii wants leaders who can put aside the partisan politics and will always put people first.

This is just one contrast in what you will see, hear and read in the next seven months of the campaign. On one hand, we have a choice of balance, executive, independent, bipartisan, common-sense solutions versus hyper-partisanship, gridlock and blind devotion to political party.

The choice is clear: We NEED Gov. Linda Lingle and her integrity and leadership as our next U.S. Senator.

Best,

Bob Lee
Campaign Manager
Linda Lingle Senate Committee

For immediate release: April 15, 2012

GOV. LINGLE TO FOCUS ON COMPREHENSIVE TAX REFORM LEGISLATION IF ELECTED TO U.S. SENATE

HONOLULU – Governor Linda Lingle announced today that if she is elected to the U.S. Senate, she will focus on comprehensive tax reform and refrain from political gimmicks like the so-called “Buffett Rule.”

“It pains me to see that on the eve of Tax Day, Senators in Washington are playing political games by scheduling a procedural vote on S. 2230, which its authors describe as ‘a bill to reduce the deficit by imposing a minimum effective tax rate for high-income taxpayers.’  Knowing full well the measure does not have the support it needs to pass, the procedural vote was deliberately set up to let this measure fail,” Gov. Lingle said.

“Once again, Congress was presented with an opportunity to provide meaningful bipartisan tax reform to the people of Hawaii and our nation, but instead it chose to squander this time for political gain,” Gov. Lingle added.

The Monday April 16 procedural vote in the U.S. Senate is scheduled after Congress’ own Joint Committee on Taxation, which provides the official Congressional analysis of tax legislation, estimated that S. 2230 would generate an average sum of just $4.7 billion per year. To put this in perspective, if our federal government collected $4.7 billion per year for the next 250 years (which is longer than we have been a nation), the amount would not even cover the 2012 deficit, which the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimates to be at least $1.2 trillion.

“In partnership with the private sector, government can spur job creation by instilling the certainty and confidence necessary for businesses to invest and to hire employees, and I am committed to do just that if elected as Hawaii’s next U.S. Senator,” Gov. Lingle said.

“I will not squander the people of Hawaii’s time and resources by engaging in this kind of partisan gamesmanship when it comes to any issue, especially tax reform and addressing the nation’s exploding debt. Instead, I will advocate for meaningful, comprehensive tax reform that brings down the rate for all taxpayers while retaining the most important deductions such as the mortgage interest and charitable contributions. Through these reforms, we will actually collect more revenue with a much broader tax base with everyone paying at a fair and simpler rate.” Gov. Lingle added.

Read more about Gov. Lingle’s plans on Tax Reforms here: http://www.lingle2012.com/economic-reforms/

# # # #

Aloha and I hope your weekend is going well,

It was a terrific day on the Big Island yesterday with Gov. Lingle where we got to visit the Merrie Monarch Festival for the Royal Parade. Governor always enjoys coming over to Hilo Town for that wonderful event, with its rich cultural heritage and connection to the Hawaiian legacy of hula. Visit http://www.lingle2012.com/photo-wall-photos/ , which is our Photo Gallery page on this website, to see some shots from yesterday. And you can also see plenty of pictures on the campaign’s Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/Lingle2012.

Did you know that in 2004, Gov. Lingle was actually the first sitting Governor to ever attend the Merrie Monarch Festival? The event holds a special place in her heart, and I know that she truly looks forward to the opportunity to come see it in person.

We had some really great news on the campaign this past week. I’m sure you all heard about the great turnout for the luncheon with Sen. Susan Collins. What a truly remarkable, clear-thinking leader, and great example of the type of bipartisan leadership we need so desperately from our elected leaders. Her speech commending Gov. Lingle for those same qualities was extremely well-received by the crowd.

Our 2012 first quarter fundraising numbers exceeded Gov. Lingle’s goal, and is also a reflection of the continued support and building momentum we are seeing for her campaign.

Have you registered with the campaign yet? If not, please take a moment and click here: http://www.lingle2012.com/volunteer-hawaii-senator/

I hope your weekend is going great.

Best,

Bob Lee
Campaign Manager
Linda Lingle Senate Committee

For immediate release: April 12, 2012

GOV. LINGLE EXCEEDS FIRST QUARTER FUNDRAISING GOAL
1,544 New Donors Join the Campaign

HONOLULU – Former Governor Linda Lingle’s U.S. Senate campaign committee today announced its first quarter fundraising totals, which exceeded the campaign’s expectations and goals.

The campaign raised $1,351,876.38 between January 1 and March 31, 2012, bringing the total funds raised in this election cycle to $3,119,186.27.

“I am very grateful for the strong financial and grassroots support the community continues to show for my campaign. We have experienced a surge of momentum in the numbers of volunteers who are signing up to help, and have added 1,544 new contributors in just 90 days.  I have found the people in Hawaii and across America eager to discuss issues important to their families, businesses, and the nation, including the economy and jobs, the debt and deficit, protecting Social Security and Medicare, and national security and veterans affairs,” said Gov. Linda Lingle.

“In these difficult economic times, I am honored and humbled to have so many supporters who identify with and have shown their support for my commitment to always put ‘people first’.  I am very grateful and appreciative that 3,089 individuals have invested in my campaign. They have put their faith in me because they know I will bring executive, independent and common-sense leadership to Washington as we address the difficult decisions that face our nation,” Gov. Lingle added.

“It is clear that Gov. Lingle’s commitment to bipartisanship is exactly what  the people of Hawaii want in their next U.S. Senator,” said campaign manager Bob Lee.  ”Voters recognize that Gov. Lingle will always put people over politics, which is a welcome change to the hyper-partisan politics we see in Washington today,” Lee added.

A complete quarterly fundraising report was filed with the Federal Elections Commission by the Linda Lingle Senate Committee according to federal campaign regulations.  Copies of the report can be acquired through the FEC.

# # # #

Civil Beat

By Chad Blair 04/11/2012

HawaiiNewsNow (VIDEO BELOW)

April 11, 2012

Senator Susan M. Collins is Maine’s three-term Senator, and a strong bipartisan leader in the U.S. Senate. Maine voters first elected Susan Collins to represent them in the United States Senate in 1996. She was re-elected in 2002 and 2008. She has earned a national reputation as a thoughtful, effective legislator, who works across party lines to seek consensus on our nation’s most important issues. Sen. Collins is the 15th woman in history to be elected to the U.S. Senate. Senator Collins is a ranking member and former Chair of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, which has jurisdiction over the Department of Homeland Security and is the Senate’s chief oversight committee. She also serves on the Appropriations Committee, Armed Services Committee, and is a member of the Special Committee on Aging. Previously, she served for six years on the Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions. Senator Collins was also the first freshman Senator ever to lead the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations.

HONOLULU – A crowd of over 300 gathered today at the Sheraton Waikiki to honor Hawaii’s former two-term Governor Linda Lingle and hear from keynote speaker U.S. Sen. Susan Collins. The three-term Senator spoke on her bipartisan leadership in the U.S. Senate, as well as the need to elect leaders who share this commitment.

“Linda’s achievements demonstrate exactly the kind of leadership we need in Washington right now,” said Sen. Collins. “We need to elect more centrists to the Senate, moderates willing to put politics aside and deal with the extraordinary issues facing our country.”

In attendance was a cross-section of the local community, ranging from military personnel, local business owners, trade and civic groups leaders, and high school students, including several from Sacred Hearts Academy where Gov. Lingle is an honorary alumna.

Gov. Lingle emphasized what a great honor it was to host Sen. Collins, who shares many of her leadership priorities, including a commitment to working across the political party aisle to develop and implement common-sense legislative solutions.

“Sen. Collins leads by example with her commitment to bipartisanship. It’s a testament to the strength of her leadership that she has built a record of success in bridging the ideological divide to ensure the people of her state and our nation remain the top priority,” said Gov. Lingle. “If elected to represent Hawaii’s people as their next U.S. Senator, you have my commitment that I will work with Sen. Collins and members of both parties and put Hawaii’s ‘people first.’”

As the calendar is rolling on, it’s always important to maximize our time each day, with just 210 days until Election Day!

We all have truly enjoyed this week’s visit by U.S. Senator Susan Collins of Maine. She is one of the most highly respected leaders in Washington because of her even temperament and ability to bridge ideological gaps between the parties. It’s been an honor hosting her.

Did you see HawaiiNewsNow’s morning show on Wednesday morning? Sen. Collins was on the show, and it was a great interview. If you missed it, click here to watch: http://www.lingle2012.com/media-coverage/sen-susan-collins-in-hawaii-to-support-linda-lingle-for-senate-video/ . Her qualities of being a bipartisan, even-keeled leader in the Senate show that someone with that type of characteristic, like Gov. Lingle, can make a real positive impact on our country.

Our luncheon on Wednesday with Sen. Collins went outstanding. It was a tremendous showing: Hundreds came out to hear her speak and show their support for the bipartisan leadership of Linda Lingle for U.S. Senate. Read this link for more on the event (http://www.lingle2012.com/news-releases/bipartisanship-collins-lingle-senate-leadership/, and see our Facebook and Twitter feeds: Lots of photos there.

I hope your week is positive and productive, and until next time.

Best,
Bob Lee
Linda Lingle Senate Committee
Campaign Manager

STATEMENT FROM GOV. LINGLE ON GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION INVESTIGATION

Gov. Lingle to Support Bipartisan Waste and Fraud Reduction Legislation If Elected to U.S. Senate

HONOLULU – Gov. Linda Lingle announced today that if she is elected to the U.S. Senate, she will support bipartisan waste and fraud reduction legislation.

“Today our nation faces a $15.5 trillion national debt, which has forced  many federal departments and agencies to cut services in order to address the shortfall. These cuts mean fewer federal dollars will flow to Hawaii in the coming years. As an example, the Department of Defense, whose presence is critical to our state’s economy, is being forced to cut $487 billion from its budget over the next nine years.” Gov. Lingle said.

“If elected to Hawaii’s U.S. Senate seat, I will collaborate with senators from both sides of the aisle to rein in wasteful federal spending. As an example, I would focus on measures that would help all federal departments and agencies prevent, detect and recover improper or fraudulent procurements and payments by joining those senators working toward this goal, including Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME), who together with Sen. Tom Carper (D-DE) authored bipartisan legislation. S. 1409, the Improper Payments Elimination and Recovery Improvement Act, would create greater oversight and accountability in federal spending.” Gov. Lingle added.

According to the bill’s sponsors, the federal government has estimated improper payments of more than $100 billion for three years running, with record high in 2010 when improper payments reached an estimated $121 billion. Measures such as Sen. Collins’ and Sen. Carper’s Improper Payments Elimination and Recovery Improvement Act have attracted bipartisan support in the Senate and have served as a model for bipartisan efforts to cut waste in the House where a companion bill H.R. 4053, has broad support on both sides of the aisle and is making its way through the lower chamber.

“I am surprised to see that Congresswoman Hirono has not signed on as co-sponsor of the House bill. This legislation is of great importance to the people of Hawaii, and there is every reason for Congress to push it through without delay,” Gov. Lingle added.

“In the midst of our nation’s fiscal crisis, we must ensure every dollar our federal government invests is not wasted. If elected as Hawaii’s next U.S. Senator I will put Hawaii’s “people first” by joining in the bipartisan effort to curb wasteful spending while ensuring that we maintain funding for the federal programs on which our state relies upon.”

I know many of you are enjoying the Passover holiday or taking your keiki around today hunting for Easter Eggs.

There are a lot of community events, and in fact today Governor Lingle will be on the Valley Isle enjoying some of the best of what Maui has to offer in terms of local produce, local cooking, and other goods made and sold on Maui. Some of our most dedicated Grassroots supporters are on Maui, dating back to the 10 years Governor spent there as a member of the County Council and also two terms as Maui Mayor. Residents know she cares so much about them, and with her background there and on Molokai, she has a special understanding of the important issues facing neighbor island communities.

If you are on Maui and have time, you should take a visit to the Maui County Agricultural Festival, going on at the Maui Tropical Plantation. Some of you longtime kamaaina may know it as it used to be called in Ulupalakua: Simply, “The Thing.”

And don’t forget next Wednesday we have the esteemed United States Senator from Maine, Susan Collins, coming to town for a special luncheon in honor of Governor Lingle. It’s not too late to get your tickets. Click here to buy them: https://secure.piryx.com/donate/SmjjhV1e/Donate/sencollins

Enjoy your Easter weekend, and until next time.

Best,

Bob Lee
Linda Lingle Senate Committee
Campaign Manager

In The Maui News Op-Ed, April 6, 2012:

By Linda Lingle

Viewpoint: Women should have control over own bodies

Women voters turn out to the polls in greater numbers than men. However, we have seen this important majority of the voting public degraded to little more than a political pawn in this year’s election cycle.

As a woman who came of age in the 1970s, when decades of battles to equalize the rights of women and men were being realized, I grew up during a time when women suddenly had choices about our education, our careers, our bodies and therefore our lives. I won’t allow us to go backward.

It pains me deeply to see members of my own party attempting to legislate women’s health and contraception choices. Throughout my years of public service, I have listened with great interest to both sides of these often controversial issues. The positions taken were argued with equivalent passion and effectiveness. But I have always been an ardent supporter of women’s rights, including a woman’s right to choose. In holding this position, I have continued to respect the deeply held, diverse beliefs of colleagues and supporters and others who oppose choice, but my position has never changed.

These discussions are too important to be subject to election-year jabs slung by both political parties. Additionally, it is both insulting and ridiculous to assume that such a significant group of influential voters focuses their attention only on one set of issues.

Women voters care deeply about a range of other issues which affect our finances, our jobs, our companies, our families, the education of our children, the security of our nation, the energy used to power our homes, vehicles and businesses, the cost of health care and many other issues. I believe that people want their elected leaders in Congress to deal with these serious issues.

When election-year rhetoric subsides and we take the time to thoughtfully and respectfully debate all of these issues, it is critically important that we have articulate, thoughtful, effective women leaders of both parties elected to the U.S. Senate. Electing pro-choice Republican women can help foster a discussion that reflects the full spectrum of views and can lead to a more balanced and responsible public dialogue.

For immediate release: April 4, 2012

HONOLULU - Former Governor Linda Lingle, candidate for Hawaii’s open U.S. Senate seat, will host U.S. Senator Susan Collins at a special luncheon at the Sheraton Waikiki on Wednesday, April 11 from 12:00 – 1:30 p.m.

“Senator Collins has been a clear voice of reason in Washington, D.C. since she began serving the people of Maine over 30 years ago. Her common-sense views on major issues are not trumped by blind party loyalty, which is highlighted by her leadership on several key committees that influence the public safety and financial direction of our country,” said Gov. Lingle. “Sen. Collins and I share interests beyond government oversight, including taking the time to read to children. I am impressed that she has visited over 100 schools in Maine, and these visits were among the most rewarding experiences in her career in public service,” Gov. Lingle added.

Senator Susan M. Collins is Maine’s three-term Senator, and a strong bipartisan leader in the U.S. Senate. Maine voters first elected Susan Collins to represent them in the United States Senate in 1996. She was re-elected in 2002 and 2008. She has earned a national reputation as a thoughtful, effective legislator, who works across party lines to seek consensus on our nation’s most important issues. Sen. Collins is the 15th woman in history to be elected to the U.S. Senate.

Senator Collins is a ranking member and former Chair of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, which has jurisdiction over the Department of Homeland Security and is the Senate’s chief oversight committee. She also serves on the Appropriations Committee, Armed Services Committee, and is a member of the Special Committee on Aging. Previously, she served for six years on the Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions. Senator Collins was also the first freshman Senator ever to lead the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations.

For more information or to secure a ticket to the luncheon, please contact Kari Hofer at Kari@Lingle2012.com, (808) 298-8057.

I wanted to make sure you saw an important new op-ed piece that Governor had published in Hawaii Reporter on Monday. In it, she talks about the importance and characteristics of Hawaii’s women voters and the fact that some political forces are trying to use isolated “wedge issues” in a cynical ploy to influence this important voting group. Gov. Lingle is akamai because the realizes that, beyond women’s health issues, women voters care deeply about a range of other issues which affect our finances, our jobs, our companies, our families, the education of our children, the security of our nation, the energy used to power our homes, vehicles and businesses, the cost of healthcare, and many other issues. Above all, Governor advocates for a discussion that reflects the full spectrum of views and can lead to a more balanced and responsible public dialogue. See the full piece here: http://www.hawaiireporter.com/women-voters-care-about-finances-jobs-families-not-just-contraception/123

Thing are going extremely well with the Linda Lingle Senate Campaign team.

One reason is the 1st quarter Federal Election Commission (FEC) deadline ended Saturday night with a flurry of activity. While we won’t know the final figures for a while, we are excited about the support for Gov. Lingle’s campaign has received across the state.

Another reason is that three-term U.S. Senator Susan Collins is coming to town on April 10. She will be the Special Guest at a luncheon for Governor Lingle on April 11, and we couldn’t be more pleased to have someone of her caliber, integrity, and bipartisanship to speak on Governor’s behalf.

If you haven’t yet, please check out this online event RSVP form, and consider attending: https://secure.piryx.com/donate/SmjjhV1e/Donate/sencollins . Senator Collins is from Maine and has always been respected on both sides of the political aisle for being able to find the middle ground in ideological debates to strike a balance and forge solutions.

Ironically, if you look across on the opponent’s side, you will find them bringing to town someone who couldn’t be farther from this even-tempered, balanced mindset. Barney Frank, one of the most hyper-partisan members of Congress will be coming to Hawaii for a Democrat fundraiser. This is the same member of Congress whose irresponsibility and feckless behavior directly contributed to the economic collapse our nation, indeed our world, suffered since the meltdown of Fannie Mae and Freddy Mac. CLICK ON THE LINKS HERE: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VgctSIL8Lhs&feature=player_embedded

Friends, this is just one contrast in what will see, hear and read in the next seven month of the campaign. On one hand, we have a choice of balance, executive, independent, bipartisan common-sense solutions versue hyperpartisanship, gridlock and blind devotion to political party. The choice is clear: We NEED Gov. Lingle and her integrity and leadership as our next U.S. Senator.

Enjoy your day.

Best,
Bob Lee
Campaign Manager
Linda Lingle Senate Committee

It appears the spirit of bipartisan accomplishment is not completely dead and buried in the halls of our Congress. Yesterday, Congress and the President passed a 90-day stop-gap transportation funding bill that will have a positive impact on our job-creating efforts

Governor Lingle recognized the importance of passing this legislation, and she spoke out in support of it, commending Congress and President Obama for its passage. See her full statement here: http://www.lingle2012.com/news-releases/gov-lingle-supports-current-job-creating-legislation/ .

Another important piece of legislation that Governor Lingle is urging Congress to pass is the re-authorization of the U.S. Export Import (Ex-Im) Bank contained in the “Securing American Jobs Through Exports Act of 2011″ (H.R. 2072).

Governor stated in news release, “U.S. exports have been one of the factors behind the recent signs of economic recovery nationwide.  The Ex-Im Bank is critical to help U.S. companies to access financing to support the exports of their goods and services abroad.  In fact, 85% of Ex-Im Bank’s transactions directly supported small businesses last year.  I again urge our nation’s political leaders to put aside partisan differences to pass legislation that will assist our nation’s businesses in creating jobs as our economy continues to recover.”

That’s leadership. That’s putting “people first.”  This is why we need Gov. Lingle in the U.S. Senate.

I hope you have a wonderful day, and until next time.

Best,

Bob Lee

Campaign Manager

Linda Lingle Senate Committee

For immediate release: March 30, 2012

HONOLULU – Governor Linda Lingle today issued a statement commending Congress and the President for passing into law the 90-day extension of federal transportation funding (H.R. 4281).

“As the focus of our government leaders should be facilitating private sector job creation for many of the 12.8 million of our fellow citizens who are still unemployed, funding for road, bridges and railway projects is important.  This is exactly the type of bipartisan result in the Senate that I will be working toward if elected Senator.”

“It is important,” stated Governor Lingle, “that our political leaders put the interests of our citizens’ economic well-being first, ahead of the partisan political arguing that has unfortunately prevented the passage of a longer-term transportation funding bill.  As Senator, I will always put the people’s interest first, ahead of any party or ideological interest.”

Governor Lingle also called on the U.S. Congress to pass the re-authorization of the U.S. Export Import (Ex-Im) Bank contained in the “Securing American Jobs Through Exports Act of 2011″ (H.R. 2072).  Without this re-authorization, Ex-Im Bank function ends on May 31, 2012.

“U.S. exports have been one of the factors behind the recent signs of economic recovery nationwide.  The Ex-Im Bank is critical to help U.S. companies to access financing to support the exports of their goods and services abroad.  In fact, 85% of Ex-Im Bank’s transactions directly supported small businesses last year.  I again urge our nation’s political leaders to put aside partisan differences to pass legislation that will assist our nation’s businesses in creating jobs as our economy continues to recover.”

# # # #

GOVERNOR LINGLE COMMENDS U.S. CHAMBER FOR TOURISM-FOCUSED TESTIMONY

HONOLULU - Former Governor Linda Lingle, candidate for Hawaii’s open U.S. Senate seat, commended U.S. Chamber of Commerce President Tom Donahue today, for testifying before the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Immigration, Refugees and Border Security in support of creating efficient policies to increase travel to the U.S. that would bolster the economy and create jobs.

“With tourism and related businesses making up nearly 10% of our nation’s GDP and employing more than 14 million Americans, we need a strong, coordinated policy at the federal level to address tourism issues, including streamlining the visa process and expanding the Visa Waiver Program,” said Gov. Linda Lingle. “The ideas presented today by the U.S. Chamber president Tom Donahue, represent a common-sense approach to tourism policy that will allow us to welcome more of our visitors from abroad, and will create more jobs for the people of Hawaii and throughout our nation.”

If elected to represent the people of Hawaii in the U.S. Senate, Gov. Lingle will work with her colleagues on both sides of the aisle to garner bipartisan support for tourism-boosting policies that will help to spur further economic recovery.

Gov. Lingle has pledged throughout her campaign that if elected she will propose to create a subcommittee on tourism in the U.S. Senate to help create more jobs in Hawaii and nationwide. As former Governor of Hawaii and Mayor of the County of Maui, Linda Lingle has extensive experience fostering the development and refinement of the hospitality industry in a manner that respects Hawaii’s host culture while providing visitors a memorable experience that encourages repeat visits. As Senator, she would like to capitalize on this experience to serve as the nation’s point person on tourism in the U.S. Senate by promoting pro-tourism policies, while not sacrificing national security.

The U.S. Chamber recently recognized Gov. Lingle’s work to promote tourism initiatives to boost Hawaii’s and our nation’s economy by endorsing her campaign for the U.S. Senate.

A copy of the U.S. Chamber’s release about Pres. Donahue’s testimony is below.

To read more about Gov. Lingle’s plans for the visitor industry and how the right policies could create jobs, visit: http://www.lingle2012.com/hawaii-issues-politics/#Visitor.
####
U.S. Chamber President Emphasizes Job Creating Potential of Travel and Tourism

in Testimony Before Senate Panel
Donohue Calls for Visa Reforms to Ease Business Travel and Tourism
WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Thomas J. Donohue today urged lawmakers to better promote the United States as a premier travel destination and to put the welcome mat back out for international visitors in order to grow the U.S. economy and create jobs.
Testifying before the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Immigration, Refugees and Border Security, Donohue highlighted the importance of efficient travel policies to conducting international business and called for key visa reforms to make inbound travel easier for visitors without compromising national security.
“The travel and tourism industry currently employs 7.4 million Americans and generates more than $700 billion in revenue,” said Donohue. “And when foreign visitors spend their money here, it’s counted as an export. But we are leaving travel-related jobs and revenues on the table because we’re not laying out the welcome mat for business visitors and tourists. Consider what’s at stake: If we could restore the U.S. share of the global overseas travel market to its 2000 level, we would create 1.3 million new jobs and generate $860 billion in economic activity-without costing taxpayers a dime.”
“With a struggling economy, we cannot forgo lost business, revenue, and exports because of bureaucratic delays and understaffed agencies. We need to ensure that when tourists are ready to travel and business people are ready to make deals, they come to the greatest travel destination of them all-the United States of America,” Donohue stated.

Donohue also spotlighted the business community’s support of the “Jobs Originated through Launching Travel Act” (JOLT), legislation that would improve the visa process and expand international travel by:
*Expanding the Visa Waiver Program
*Giving travelers the option to expedite visa applications for a fee *Offering lower application fees during off-peak seasons
*Ensuring timely and predictable reviews by requiring the State Department to process applications within a 2 week time frame.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and local chambers and industry associations.

Governor Lingle continues visiting with our grassroots teams on the neighbor islands, meeting with our dedicated supporters. It’s truly exciting the see the outpouring of support for our campaign.

Did you see where the U.S. Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Thomas J. Donohue urged lawmakers to better promote the United States as a premier travel destination and to put the welcome mat back out for international visitors in order to grow the U.S. economy and create jobs. Gov. Lingle felt this was exactly the type of common-sense ideas representing a common-sense approach to tourism policy that bring in more visitors from abroad, and create more jobs for the people of Hawaii and throughout our nation. See her full statement responding to this practical line of thought here: http://www.lingle2012.com/news-releases/gov-lingle-commends-u-s-chamber-for-tourism-focused-testimony/

I also want to commend the 36 Hawaii teams that participated in the 5th Annual FIRST in Hawaii Robotics Regional Competition at the Stan Sheriff Center on the UH Manoa Campus. Waialua and Baldwin High Schools were joined by Island Pacific Academy as the championship teams this year, while more than 1,000 students participated in the exciting and educational competition. Read more results about Championship awards here: http://www.hawaiiroc.org/first-robotics/first-in-hawaii-2012-regional, and read about the competition in the Star Advertiser here http://bit.ly/H47NWN, plus Maui News http://bit.ly/HbERIf and in the the Big Island news: http://bit.ly/H4a9k2. Now it’s on to St. Louis for World Championships in April!

The competition was very stimulating and reassured everyone in attendance the vast potential Hawaii’s future holds. STEM curriculum is growing, and thanks to Governor Lingle’s leadership over the last five years, Hawaii’s six scholastic robotics programs are growing expeditiously.

Before I sign-off, I want to highlight the new resource that we know will be important for all of you to be familiar with. “Fact versus Myth” which sets the record straight on various false claims that are being made by political operatives. The piece is available online at http://www.lingle2012.com/fact-vs-myth/.

I hope your week has a productive, positive start.

Best,
Bob Lee
Campaign Manager
Linda Lingle Senate Campaign

I hope your weekend is going well. We’ve had a great deal of excitement the past few days at the FIRST IN HAWAII ROBOTICS REGIONAL Competition. Over 1,000 students participated in our own version of March Madness. REBOUND RUMBLE finished up yesterday, and I hope many of you were able to stop by the Stan Sheriff Center on the UH Manoa campus to see Hawaii’s keiki excel in the world of STEM (science, technology, engineering and math). If you did, then you were no doubt as blown away as I was at the impressive display these kids put on with their ingenious creations.

Congratulations to Waialua High School, Baldwin High School, and Island Pacific Academy, the three teams that are this year’s champs.

I’m excited to be part of the initiative having served as the Regional Director for almost two years, concluding my term in September. I am still impressed by what our students are accomplishing, now 5 years after Gov. Lingle helped implement the program toward where it is today.

Please see http://www.staradvertiser.com/multimedia/photo_galleries/Island_Images_Robotics.html to see some images from what’s been going on there.

Also, on the campaign trail, Governor Lingle released a very informative, detailed and sourced, document that ensures others will not try to rewrite history, or make false claims by distorting the truth. Entitled “Fact versus Myth,” this tool is online for you to read at http://www.lingle2012.com/fact-vs-myth/. Please take time to review the six false claims political operatives have made, so when asked, YOU CAN SET THE RECORD STRAIGHT.

On Saturday, Governor brought together a terrific group of our Grassroots supporters for a meeting at McCoy Pavilion. If you haven’t yet, check our Facebook page (Facebook.com/Lingle2012) and see some of the photos posted there. It’s part of our ongoing effort to strengthen our supporter base, something that Governor reminds us is CRUCIAL for an Election Day victory. Governor and I will be visiting Grassroots teams on the neighbor islands over the next few days, so stay tuned to our social media for photos and updates from those stops as well.

Enjoy your day. And until next time.

Best,
Bob Lee
Campaign Manager
Linda Lingle Senate Committee

A HEALTHY AMERICA

Good health is a precious asset. A healthy lifestyle and access to quality care can significantly increase a person’s quality of life. Feeling good is fundamental to wanting to get up each morning, perform at our best, and contribute to society. Health problems can stifle our productivity, cause us great pain, shorten our lifespan, and dramatically increase our medical expenses, and bring sadness to our family and friends.

That is why I place such a very high value on ensuring that every citizen has access to good medical care and has the information and encouragement to live a healthy lifestyle. It is also why I personally try to eat right, don’t smoke (I stopped decades ago), swim frequently, and pay regular visits to my doctor.

From the day I took office as Governor of Hawaii, I made quality, accessible, health care for Hawaii’s residents a major priority. Click here to read more about my Administration’s noteworthy accomplishments.

Hawaii is unique in the United States in how it provides health care insurance to the majority of its population. As a result of the Prepaid Health Care Act enacted in 1974, over 85% of Hawaii residents are covered by medical insurance through their employer or as a dependent of an employed person. My experience with this law has given me a solid grounding in the field of health insurance and the options to ensure access and affordability, especially as a candidate for the U.S. Senate at a time when healthcare is such an important discussion at the national level.

Being Hawaii’s Governor has also prepared me for the issues associated with bioterrorism, pandemics, communicable diseases, and public health emergencies since our island State serves as a gateway to Asian and international visitors.

Additionally, given that the life-spans of the people of Hawaii are among the longest in the nation, as Governor I had the opportunity to work on issues of health care for an aging population that respects the needs of the elderly while meeting the fiscal parameters of a balanced budget.

If given the chance to serve as your next Senator, I will focus on promoting a Healthy America following these approaches:

• Medicare: I understand the importance of a fiscally sound Medicare system for seniors and the disabled that reassures those currently receiving Medicare benefits that they will have the health care support they had been promised. I have set forth a plan to sustain Medicare and I invite you to review it. My Medicare proposal includes simplifying the billing and coding system to ensure health care providers continue to participate in Medicare; tackling the estimated $50-100 billion in Medicare fraud and abuse; and creating a long-term Medicare system that provides future beneficiaries with early and advance notice of changes.
• Medicaid: If the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act is retained, the number of citizens under 65 covered by Medicaid will expand substantially, increasing to an estimated 66 million by 2019. That is why I have joined with six other former Governors through the Bipartisan Policy Center to outline a series of concrete steps to streamline the Medicaid waiver process. Our proposal can be viewed here. Without these Medicaid changes, States will not be able to maintain the fundamental program that provides healthcare coverage for our lowest-income Americans.

National Health Care Law: Both proponents and opponents of the current federal healthcare law have trivialized the discussion surrounding healthcare in America by asking, “are you for or against the law?”  This overly simplistic, election-year question diverts attention from the real issue at hand: providing affordable, quality healthcare to as many citizens as possible.

While I think it is important to find solutions to some of the issues the law tries to address — pre-existing conditions, college students’ need for health insurance while they are still in school, and the absolute imperative that Hawaii’s and America’s children have access to medical and dental care — I don’t like that the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act’s (PPACA) costs are being disproportionately imposed on small and medium-sized businesses, which in turn is hurting our economic recovery. These businesses are understandably reluctant to hire new staff when they do not know what the full cost of health insurance will be. And I don’t like that the law does not address in a serious way the need for medical liability (lawsuit) reform.

I am also concerned about other parts of the law.

(1)  I believe the proposed Independent Payment Advisory Boards will slow access to medical procedures, put people needing care on wait lists and set up a bureaucratic appeals process. Recently, a majority of members of the U.S. House of Representatives co-sponsored a proposal to eliminate the Independent Payment Advisory Boards. They recognized this unaccountable, unelected board, which is insulated from public, or judicial review, has the power to effectively decide what kind of healthcare each of us receives, and at what price—in effect, a form of rationing.

(2)  The deep cuts to the Medicare Advantage programs for seniors in the PPACA is shortsighted. It is reported that PPACA will reduce Medicare Part A spending by an estimated $500 billion, mostly to pay for new entitlement spending, which means less care for Hawaii’s seniors.

(3)  Healthcare insurance purchase mandates raise constitutional concerns and the creation of health insurance exchanges by states has not been well thought out.

On balance, I have serious reservations about the PPACA as passed because it allows the federal government to force Hawaii and all other states into a one-size-fits-all program that is financially unsustainable for our state and nation. While I believe we need to find bipartisan ways to provide healthcare to the small percentage of Hawaii’s people who want and do not currently have healthcare insurance, it should not be done in a way that reduces the quality and availability of healthcare for the majority, as I believe this law will do.

It is important to note that health insurance does not guarantee healthcare, which is our goal. Having health insurance is of no value if there are no doctors and other healthcare providers to accept you as a patient because the low reimbursements make it impossible for them to stay in business.

I believe it is time for America to look at encouraging the availability of health insurance policies across state lines, thereby increasing competition and giving Americans a wider set of health insurance options that best fit their families.  Any future healthcare law should seek to support an expanded use of Health Savings Accounts that allow citizens to set-aside pre-tax dollars for their future healthcare needs.  We should also explore a health insurance premium payment program for those with high medical costs to allow them to obtain and retain medical insurance coverage.  Additionally, options to purchase catastrophic healthcare coverage and high deductible healthcare plans should be available for those citizens who would prefer this form of coverage for themselves or their ‘ohana. Finally, as we work to address our nation’s rising healthcare costs, we need to focus on medical liability (lawsuit) reform. A failure to address this issue means the current “defensive” medicine that leads to expensive over-testing will continue to drive up healthcare costs. During my two terms as Governor, my Administration introduced medical liability reform legislation that would have placed limits on the award of non-economic damages, included limits to attorney contingency fees, assigned penalties based on the percentage of responsibility of the healthcare provider, and would have allowed for periodic payments of award amounts. We worked closely with the Hawaii Medical Association in seeking support in the State Legislature for these reforms.  If elected to the U.S. Senate, I would pursue medical liability reform legislation at the national level, to ensure our discussion addresses one of the causes of the high cost of healthcare.

Like all proposed laws, the PPACA must be assessed and if it is good for Hawaii, I’ll be for it, but if it’s not, then I will be against it. The people of Hawaii deserve nothing less. Furthermore, you have my commitment that if elected as your next U.S. Senator, I will work to preserve the comprehensive coverage Hawaii’s citizens have enjoyed since 1974, while carefully considering whether parts of the PPACA that do not directly conflict with the HPHCA serve the best interest of the American people and the people of Hawaii.

• Medical Malpractice Reform: Evidence suggests that physicians, including many specialists, are retiring or leaving their practice because of rising insurance costs and the fear of being sued. Enacting national medical liability reform legislation will help retain and recruit a strong physician workforce and expand access to care. This legislation should address the need to limit non-economic damages in medical malpractice suits; establish controls for attorney fees so that patients receive their fair share of any award; require economic damages to be allocated based on the proportionate percentage of negligence, not of who has “deep pockets”; and enumerate what constitutes economic damages. Patients who suffer from a medical error need assurances they can collect on valid claims while doctors need assurances the system will not bankrupt them.
• Medical Preparedness: Our nation’s ability to address an outbreak of illness or disease depends heavily on early detection and detailed analysis of the sources before it spreads. That is why I will support continued resources for the Centers for Disease Control. Their work can be augmented by volunteer medical workers who respond to public health crises. But we need to ensure these volunteers are protected from liability in officially declared emergency situations. As a nation, we should also invest in cutting edge early detection and warning systems at our ports of entry and medical centers so that national and State medical experts can quickly detect emerging outbreaks or address potential health threats before they enter the United States.
• Prevention: Studies have repeatedly shown that the best way to prevent the risk of serious illness such as obesity, high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and arthritis is to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly. Across the country, public and private sector employers are sponsoring worksite wellness programs as a way to improve the health and well-being of their employees. We need to encourage these types of programs nationwide by updating health insurance and premiums to incentivize and reward healthy behaviors. Additionally, I applaud the national effort to support daily physical education programs in schools across the United States so that children learn life-long habits of staying active and eating right.

These are some of the fundamental health care issues I hope to work on if given the opportunity to serve as your U. S. Senator. America has led the world in providing the best health care and most advanced medicines available to man. We can continue this leadership role with the right public policies. I have demonstrated experience in dramatically improving health care for the State of Hawaii and can bring that same set of leadership skills to the healthcare needs of our nation.

For Immediate Release: March 23, 2012

HONOLULU – Former Governor Linda Lingle, candidate for Hawaii’s open U.S. Senate seat, posted today on her campaign website (www.lingle2012.com) a new section entitled Fact v. Myth.

Accompanying the web release is a soft-cover handout that together focus squarely on the facts about Governor Lingle’s proven record of results during her eight years as Hawaii’s Governor, as well as her ongoing commitment to always putting Hawaii’s “people first.” Fact v. Myth is a practical reference guide that sets the record straight on various issues raised by opponents and their surrogates in the U.S. Senate race.

“There will be false claims made during this Senatorial campaign, including attempts to rewrite the history of my eight years as Hawaii’s Governor. I believe it is important to identify several of these false claims and set the record straight so we can focus on the important issues facing our state and nation,” said Gov. Lingle.

Fact v. Myth articulates the facts, with sources and references available through the campaign website, putting to rest six misconceptions and politically-crafted falsehoods about Governor Lingle by clearly and concisely providing the factual reality of each claim.

“In order to deal with the challenges that residents and businesses of our state and nation face on a daily basis, including Hawaii’s skyrocketing cost of living, it is critical we focus on the real issues. The voters of our state deserve nothing less.

“You have my commitment that if elected as your next U.S. Senator, I will use my more than three decades of experience as a council member, Mayor and Governor to break through the partisan gridlock in Washington to find real solutions, and I will always put “people first,” added Gov. Lingle.

Gov. Lingle’s Fact v. Myth is available online: http://www.lingle2012.com/fact-vs-myth/

Paid for by Linda Lingle Senate Committee

Visit http://www.facebook.com/PetLoversForLingle/ on Facebook and be sure to connect with the Pet Lovers for Linda Lingle 2012 Facebook page!

The Pet Lovers Coalition is a Facebook Page dedicated to our fine, furry (and feathered, scaly, …) friends and their loving owners who also support Linda Lingle for U.S. Senate.

This is a page where pet owners and others who love the little creatures that bring joy into our lives can share stories, pictures, messages, and tips about pets in Hawaii. In her two terms as Hawaii’s Governor, Linda Lingle helped bring about important, positive change in the lives of pets and their owners, including modifications to the state’s quarantine laws for pets coming into the state.

We are honored to have the distinguished United States Senator from Maine, Susan Collins, join us as Special Guest at a luncheon honoring Gov. Linda Lingle, and we hope you will be able to join us. Please RSVP online: https://secure.piryx.com/donate/SmjjhV1e/Donate/sencollins. ** Or RSVP/questions to Kari Hofer, Kari@Lingle2012.com, (808) 298-8057 **

Sen. Susan Collins is Maine’s three-term Senator, and a strong bipartisan leader in the U.S. Senate.

Luncheon Chair Kitty Lagareta shares with you this invitation, and details following:

WHEN:
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
12:00 – 1:30 p.m.

WHERE:
Sheraton Waikiki – Kauai Ballroom

COST:
$60 per person;
$600 Table of 10

ABOUT:
Maine voters first elected Susan M. Collins to represent them in the United States Senate in 1996. She was re-elected in 2002 and 2008. She has earned a national reputation as a thoughtful, effective legislator, who works across party lines to seek consensus on our nation’s most important issues. Sen. Collins is the 15th woman in history to be elected to the Senate.

Senator Collins is a Ranking Member and former Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, which has jurisdiction over the Department of Homeland Security and is the Senate’s chief oversight committee. She also serves on the Appropriations Committee, Armed Services Committee, and is a member of the Special Committee on Aging. Previously, she served for six years on the Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions. Senator Collins was also the first freshman Senator ever to lead the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations.

Please RSVP online: https://secure.piryx.com/donate/SmjjhV1e/Donate/sencollins. ** Or RSVP/questions to Kari Hofer, Kari@Lingle2012.com, (808) 298-8057 **

Aloha,

Linda Lingle Senate Committee

FIRST, SPECIAL NEWS: Senator Susan Collins is coming to Hawaii for special events. Check this link for more details http://bit.ly/GH7hLp .

Recently we had a small bit of good economic news, with sustained increases in jobs reported by government data. However, news reports at the tail end of last week about rising gas prices and the increasing cost of living in the U.S. bore a grim reminder that we are far from the path to real opportunity and prosperity that we need to be. We simply MUST elect leaders like Gov. Linda Lingle who will focus on the critical issues affecting our economy.

Fortunately, she has the ISSUES on her side, and she’s out there every day sharing with the people of Hawaii real solutions that can positively impact our economy and their lives NOW. See this video (http://youtu.be/DyN_Jd1It9Q ) for one plan she has come up with for helping the economy: Jobs Impact Statements.

You don’t need a news report to tell you how much gasoline prices have spiked recently. Energy remains a critically important issue that resonates with everyone Governor speaks with. Her record of success, including with the Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative launched during her Administration as Governor, shows she has the right focus and understanding of the need to diversify our energy sources and encourage market development of renewable fuel to wean us off imported foreign oil and its high cost and toll for the economy and environment.

You can learn more about Gov. Lingle’s positions on ENERGY here: http://www.lingle2012.com/hawaii-issues-politics/#energy

I hope your week is off to a fruitful start.

Best,
Bob Lee
Campaign Manager
Linda Lingle Senate Committee

I was saddened to hear about the passing of one of America’s true heroes this past week. Haruichi “James” Hama­saki, a member of the famed 442nd Regimental Combat Regimental Team, died March 12. The Star-Advertiser reported yesterday that James was just shy of his 90th birthday, and from his family’s fondness for him it’s easy to see that his ohana will miss him dearly. Our nation is so grateful for his bravery and heroism, and those of all the members of the 442nd/100th Battalion/MIS who literally changed the course of history with their courage and commitment to freedom during World War II.

This past year I had the immense honor of serving on Hawaii’s Congressional Gold Medal Committee, meeting so many of these patriots who served our country as they were honored with the Congressional Gold Medal. Getting to know them, and be around them, created within me so much more admiration and respect, as I saw firsthand the men who preserved the freedom we enjoy today.  Fewer and fewer of these heroes remain, so it’s important we tell them now how grateful we are for their sacrifice and commitment.

Enjoy your weekend and until next time.

Best,

Bob Lee
Campaign Manager
Linda Lingle Senate Committee

Looks like the rains have pulled back some. I’ve seen some clear blue skies here and there, which is always welcome after heavy rains!

A recent jobs report came out last week that I think is cause for optimism, but also some sobering aspects to it that underscore the urgency in what Gov. Lingle is seeking to accomplish as our next United States Senator. National jobs data just released shows some continued, strong increases in the number of jobs, but a news article from CNN reports that America is still down 6 million jobs from before the Great Recession.

So while it’s good we are seeing an upward trend, the number of families in Hawaii and across America that are hurting because they’re unemployed or UNDERemployed, demand our leaders full attention. And Gov. Linda Lingle is exactly the candidate we need. Her proven record of finding common-sense, bipartisan solutions to the challenges we face as a state and nation will serve our state well in Washington, D.C.

There are a myriad of practical solutions that Governor has identified that will have a strong, positive impact for our state, including areas such as regulatory reform and tourism reform. If you haven’t yet, please take a moment to learn more about how these ideas can invigorate our struggling economy: http://youtu.be/eXlTS5fHO2k (Tourism) and http://youtu.be/DyN_Jd1It9Q  (Ensuring Government Rules and Regulations Are Sound).

I hope your week gets off to a great start.

Best,

Bob Lee
Campaign Manager
Linda Lingle Senate Committee

What a wet, messy week it’s been. Gov. Lingle is headed over to Kauai today, and will be visiting with some of the folks on the island that was among the hardest-hit by our recent storms. The neighbor islands always were a top priority for her during her elected career, especially because of her strong ties to Maui and understanding of the unique attributes of life on the neighbor islands. And that same attention continues now, and will continue if we are successful in helping elect her our next U.S. Senator.

There was quite a bit of chatter this past week among partisan mouthpieces with regard to a fundraiser that Gov. Lingle attended last week. Also in attendance was Sen. Roy Blunt, author of a controversial health care-related amendment that was defeated. Gov. Lingle, as it happens, would have voted against the amendment, but she believes in working collaboratively with people of all parties and ideologies in government, because she is committed to putting “people first,” ahead of blind partisan loyalty.

That last point was obviously missed by many who live and breathe the hyperpartisan politics as usual, but I didn’t miss an opportunity to respond forcefully in defense of Gov. Lingle. Please read my full statement here: http://www.lingle2012.com/news-releases/lingle-blunt-senate-campaign/

Be safe this weekend, and until next time,

Best,

Bob Lee
Campaign Manager
Linda Lingle Senate Committee

For immediate release: March 6, 2012

STATEMENT FROM LINDA LINGLE SENATE COMMITTEE

HONOLULU – Bob Lee, campaign manager for the Linda Lingle Senate Committee, released the following statement today.

“Today’s email statement from the Hirono campaign is the kind of partisan rhetoric that turns off voters because it fails to address the important issues being faced by Hawaii’s families and small businesses.

“Mazie Hirono constantly uses this kind of personal attack against Governor Linda Lingle even though the Governor is not her opponent at this stage of the campaign. Perhaps this is Hirono’s way of trying to distract the public and the media from the fact that she refuses to debate the person who is her opponent – former Congressman Ed Case.

“Whatever the purpose of the Hirono campaign’s personal attacks today against Governor Lingle and U.S. Senator Roy Blunt, they make one thing crystal clear: Mazie Hirono does not have the demeanor or temperament to be a United States Senator.

“If the Hirono camp had done its homework, it would have known that Governor Lingle and Mazie Hirono share the same position on the Blunt Amendment – neither supports the broadly crafted language of the amendment.

“But this is where the comparison stops. Governor Lingle knows it hurts the state of Hawaii to make the kind of personal attacks Hirono has made against United States Senator Roy Blunt. I think Senator Inouye would agree with me since throughout his career he has been a calm and steady voice who always represented our state with class.

“Governor Lingle knows that she will not agree with her Republican or Democratic colleagues on every issue. When she disagrees with a colleague it will be in a respectful manner that does not embarrass the people of Hawaii as Mazie has done today with her hyper-partisan rhetoric. If Governor Lingle is elected to the U.S. Senate, she will work with each and every colleague to find common ground that leads to thoughtful policy decisions that benefit all of the people of her state and the nation.

“Conversely, Hirono’s statement shows that she will take a hard-nosed, partisan position against any colleague whose personal beliefs differ from hers. Besides being inappropriate and misleading, a statement like the one she validated today shows Mazie Hirono is ill-equipped to be a U.S. Senator. Instead of showing a willingness to work with others to find real solutions to problems, she will simply contribute to the hyper-partisan bickering that has stifled our country in the last few years.

“Personal attacks have no place in the United States Senate. Mazie Hirono’s attitude and actions are inappropriate for a sitting Congresswoman and are certainly not befitting a U.S. Senator.”

Bob Lee
Campaign Manager
Linda Lingle Senate Committee

PAID FOR BY LINDA LINGLE SENATE COMMITTEE

I hope you’ve managed to stay dry and safe so far. It’s quite a tropical storm that’s descended on us, across at least parts of all the islands, and it’s imperative we all take a little extra time and caution in getting where we need to so that we arrive safely. I

The video footage of flooding on Kauai is a reminder of the potential for significant danger that accompanies storms like these, something we who live here know all too well.

It’s better to be a little late to where you’re going, but arrive safely, then to rush it and chance a mishap.

We just received a really terrific letter in yesterday from a supporter.  I wanted to share just a portion of it, as I believe it showcases the special qualities that make Governor Lingle so perfectly suited to become our next United States Senator:

“The depth and breadth of LL’s experience, in general, and especially her seemingly unique experience dealing with Asia; her military perspective, because of Hawaii’s vanguard role in national defense; her experience working with those on the ‘other side of the aisle’ to get things done; her moral clarity; her people-related instincts; and her quiet confidence, disarmingly congenial manner and her knowledge of and facility with the issues of the day (e.g., how she addressed the media’s current obsession with the ‘Choice’ issue (It’s so 1950s’), make her an ideal candidate for the U.S. Senate, serving both Hawaii as well as the entire country.”

Be safe out there, and until next time.

Best,

Bob Lee (Major General ret.)
Campaign Manager, Linda Lingle Senate Committee

I hope you all are enjoying your weekend. The gloomy weather that started our day was reflected, to a certain extent, in the surprising news regarding Sen. Olympia Snowe’s retirement. Her impending departure from the Senate is a tremendous loss for the state of Maine, the body of the Senate, and our country, due to her three decades of experience, balanced temperament, and ability to forge solutions by finding common ground between both political parties.

Please take a moment to read Gov. Lingle’s statement about Sen. Snowe: http://www.lingle2012.com/news-releases/linda-lingle-olympia-snowe-retirement/

Also, the national press picked up on Governor’s statement:
http://hotlineoncall.nationaljournal.com/archives/2012/02/lingle-im-the-n.php

I hope your weekend is relaxing, and until next time,

Best,
Bob Lee (Major General ret.)
Campaign Manager, Linda Lingle Senate Committee

HONOLULU – The Governors’ Council of the Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC) released a whitepaper today outlining recommendations to reform Medicaid’s waiver process. As a founding member of the Governors’ Council, former Governor Linda Lingle supported the Council’s detailed recommendations.

A copy of the BPC’s release is included below. The complete whitepaper with recommendations can be found online by visiting: http://www.bipartisanpolicy.org/library/report/reforming-medicaid-waivers-governors’-council-perspective-federalism-today

# # #

Bipartisan Policy Center Governors’ Council Releases Recommendations to Reform Medicaid Waiver Process

Washington, D.C. – The Bipartisan Policy Center’s (BPC) Governors’ Council today released a series of recommendations to improve the Medicaid waiver process.

Formally launched in early 2011, BPC’s Governors’ Council includes former Governors Phil Bredesen (D-TN), Jim Douglas (R-VT), Brad Henry (D-OK), Linda Lingle (R-HI), Mike Rounds (R-SD), and Ted Strickland (D-OH). Click here to read the full report, entitled, Reforming Medicaid Waivers: The Governors’ Council Perspective on Federalism Today.

“We believe the Medicaid waiver process can and should be improved. Common sense reforms will benefit leaders at all levels of government, and it has become clear that states need more flexibility to meet their coverage and benefit goals,” said Governor Jim Douglas. “We must continue to ensure that the Medicaid program is effective and sustainable in the future, and reforming the Medicaid waiver process is a step in that direction.”

The former state executives believe that the Medicaid waiver process must allow states to test new strategies that could improve care and lower costs for taxpayers. As current state leaders struggle with budget deficits and reduced revenues, the need for additional flexibility in the Medicaid program is great.

The report offers five recommendations for the administration to consider:

CMS should establish and circulate a detailed and transparent process for state-federal budget neutrality negotiations and waiver evaluations. CMS should ensure that all relevant parties are engaged at the beginning of the waiver approval process, since multiple layers of approvals create an inefficient and duplicative process for states.

Establish a mechanism for converting successful waivers into permanent or semi-permanent state innovations in the Medicaid program. Frequent waiver renewals are a burden on high performing state programs and an inefficient use of scarce state and federal resources.

Develop State Plan Amendment templates for effective Medicaid strategies. CMSshould equip states with tools to implement targeted program changes and to encourage the efficient dissemination of common sense reforms and best practices.

CMS should design waiver templates that address time-sensitive and pertinent Medicaid challenges, supporting state efforts to quickly and effectively respond to changes in the marketplace attributable to provisions in the Affordable Care Act. CMSshould standardize certain components of the waiver application process to provide states direction and reduce uncertainty as they look for creative and innovative ways to manage forthcoming changes in the Medicaid program. This will enable states to focus efforts on common challenges, such as addressing health care reform and dual eligibles, and promoting new payment methods and innovative care delivery models.

HHS should make guidance and assistance provided to state leaders by the Medicaid State Technical Assistance Teams transparent and public on Medicaid.gov. Many states are dealing with similar issues, and state leaders would benefit from timely access to information that supports planning and decision making at the state level.

“The federal government and the states both have an interest in identifying reforms that will improve health care quality, reduce costs, and promote innovation,” said Governor Phil Bredesen. “Our recommendations for improving the current waiver process will not only allow states to innovate but also foster a more effective state-federal partnership.”

In the coming months, BPC’s Governors’ Council will continue to look at other policy areas for opportunities to improve the state-federal relationship.

For more information on BPC’s Governors’ Council, please visit www.bipartisanpolicy.org.

###

BPC Media Contact:

Ashley Clark
(202) 637-1456
aclark@bipartisanpolicy.org

Paid for by Linda Lingle Senate Committee

“Maine Sen. Olympia Snowe today announced her plans to retire from the U.S. Senate, after serving over 33 years in Congress. Citing ‘an atmosphere of polarization and my way or the highway’ ideologies, Snowe will not seek re-election in what would have been her fourth term.

“The U.S. Senate is losing a dedicated public servant with the retirement of Olympia Snowe. She has selflessly served the people of Maine from her time in both houses of Maine’s legislature to both houses of U.S. Congress. Her comments on the atmosphere in Washington are sadly true and with the challenges America faces today, we can no longer afford political gamesmanship and partisan gridlock.

“The American people deserve elected leaders, like Olympia Snowe, who are dedicated to finding a common purpose to build a stronger future for our country. If elected to the U.S. Senate, I will be committed to finding common ground with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle and, most importantly, will always put the people of Hawaii first in everything I do.”

-Former Gov. Linda Lingle

# # # #

Gov. Linda Lingle’s Statement on the Honolulu Rail Project

“I have been a long time and consistent supporter of mass transit and improving traffic conditions for Hawaii residents, especially those who travel to and from west and central Oahu.

“However, I question whether Hawaii can afford the current rail project, as designed, engineered and administered by the City and County of Honolulu.

“Based on the cost estimates for this project, I have serious reservations regarding the potential financial impact of this project on the current and future residents of our State.  That burden includes neighbor island residents who will not directly benefit from the project. Recent forecasts indicate that annual ridership and its associated fees will not produce enough revenue to maintain the massive rail system over its years of operation.  This places an uncertain financial obligation and an unacceptable financial risk on both the City and County of Honolulu and the State of Hawaii.

“As Governor, I commissioned an independent economic analysis of the Honolulu Rail Transit Project to ensure we fully understood the projected revenue sources to fund what will be the single largest and most expensive public works project in the history of Hawaii. The findings of that independent analysis, which are available to the public, gave me cause for concern.

“One of the findings in the 2010 analysis was that the debt load required to finance the rail project is likely to push annual debt service levels for the City & County of Honolulu well past its current 20% of budget guideline.  Recent news of the waiver of this guideline validates this finding.  Based on an extensive review of similar systems in other jurisdictions, the independent analysis also questioned project ridership estimates and operating costs for the project.

“I also have a serious concern with the City’s over-reliance on the federal government to provide a significant portion of the construction funding. Without a guaranteed federal contribution of nearly $1.8 billion, the potential exists for this financial burden to fall upon the shoulders of Hawaii taxpayers. Given that Honolulu must also upgrade its water and sewer systems, in part due to the settlement with the EPA, there needs to be a serious review of just how much Hawaii residents can afford and how much federal support we will receive to address all of our aging infrastructure needs.

“To be clear, I support a mass transit project that fits our community, one that can be adapted to population growth patterns, one that is fiscally sound, achievable and treats all the residents of Hawaii fairly and one that can take advantage of new engineering advances and technologies over the years to come.

“If elected to the U.S. Senate, I will fight for every federal dollar that Hawaii is due in order to help us address our transportation needs. During my Administration as Governor, our Dept. of Transportation worked aggressively to secure federal dollars for state highway projects on every island. I will work with Sen. Inouye and the entire Congressional delegation to thoroughly discuss and assess how best to proceed with the current rail project given the concerns expressed herein.

“Simply building a rail system on Oahu is not the solution to Hawaii’s transportation needs.  We must think and plan more broadly.  In addition to mass transit, we must create jobs where people live. We must have a vision that includes not only our past problems, but our future goals.  In summary, we need to take a step back, focus on the big picture and then decide if the current rail project is truly the right fit for Oahu’s transportation needs and we must make that decision considering the best interest of all of Hawaii’s residents.

“For now, I have serious reservations with the City and County of Honolulu’s proposed rail project and I cannot and will not, in good faith, support the project as it is presently being administered.”

- Former Gov. Linda Lingle

I hope you all are enjoying your week. I was on the Valley Isle – Maui – on Saturday, attending a luncheon to honor the brave Nisei veterans of World II — those heroes of the 100th Battalion / 442nd Regiment / MIS who literally changed the course of history in preserving the freedoms we have and enjoy today. The ceremony was to honor these Congressional Gold Medal recipients. The Maui News has an excellent write-up on the event on their website. Visit: http://www.mauinews.com/page/content.detail/id/558515/Medals-of-Honor-for-Men-of-Honor.html?nav=10

This past year it has been an honor to witness and be part of something so historic. Talking story with these retired soldiers has reminded me of how fortunate we are to still have these members of the Greatest Generation around to learn from as far as boldness, integrity, patriotism and duty to country. If you ask me, there are no greater heroes around than these fine men.

I hope you all are enjoying your week. The winter time is obviously a time in the year where most folks on the chilly mainland would love to be enjoying the more outdoor-friendly climate we enjoy every day here in Hawaii. And our improving tourism industry is a key indicator of just how true that sentiment is.

The industry is the life’s blood of our economy, as everyone knows, but Gov. Lingle recognizes there’s more we could be doing to improve on that.

Recently the President announced a plan to boost tourism and travel, an effort that fits perfectly with Governor’s well-documented and long-standing commitment to promoting tourism and travel. The tourism-boosting programs and initiatives Gov. Lingle advocated and worked for during her two terms in office are in line with what the President has put forth. It’s simply common-sense. It is also a credit to Governor’s strong belief in putting “people first” ahead of blind partisan loyalty, that she supports the President’s tourism-focused policies. She knows that it’s a sector comprising about 10% of our nation’s GDP and employing more than 14 million Americans – we must do all we can to strengthen it so our economy can improve.

Read her full statement on the President’s tourism plans here: http://www.lingle2012.com/news-releases/lingle-obama-tourism-economy-senate/

Please enjoy your week and be safe.

Best,
Bob Lee (Major General ret.)
Campaign Manager, Linda Lingle Senate Committee

I hope you all are enjoying your time off, resting and relaxing from what hopefully was a productive week. The winter time is obviously a time in the year where most folks on the chilly mainland would love to be enjoying the more outdoor-friendly climate we enjoy every day here in Hawaii. And our improving tourism industry is a key indicator of just how true that sentiment is.

The industry is the life’s blood of our economy, as everyone knows, but Gov. Lingle recognizes there’s more we could be doing to improve on that.

Recently, on January 19, 2012, our President announced a plan to boost tourism and travel. This effort fits perfectly with Governor’s well-documented and long-standing commitment to promoting tourism and travel. The tourism-boosting programs and initiatives Gov. Lingle advocated and worked for during her two terms in office are in line with what the President has put forth. It’s simply common-sense. It is also a credit to Governor’s strong belief in putting “people first” ahead of blind partisan loyalty, that she supports the President’s tourism-focused policies. With tourism and related businesses making up nearly 10% of our nation’s GDP and employing more than 14 million Americans, we need a strong, coordinated policy at the federal level to address tourism issues, including streamlining the visa process and expanding the Visa Waiver Program — issues that Gov. Lingle is perfectly qualified to push at the federal level.

Please enjoy your weekend and be safe.

Best,
Bob Lee (Major General ret.)
Campaign Manager, Linda Lingle Senate Committee

For immediate release: February 23, 2012

HONOLULU – Governor Linda Lingle announced today that if elected to the U.S. Senate, she will create advisory boards on each neighbor island to give a voice to the statewide population of Hawaii at the Federal level.

During her eight years as Governor, she implemented county advisory boards made up of volunteer community leaders. The membership of the boards in East and West Hawaii, Maui, Molokai, Lanai and Kauai discussed and reviewed a myriad of issues important to each island.

“Having worked and lived on both Molokai and Maui, I know how important it is for residents on every island to know their concerns are being heard by their U.S. Senator and that their opinions are important at a national level,” said Gov. Linda Lingle. “The island-specific advisory boards that I plan to initiate if elected to the U.S. Senate, will provide residents on each island a forum to discuss issues that need to be addressed in Washington.”

“While other candidates have pledged to be available via a toll free number or through their websites, I believe it is critical for constituents to be able to interact face-to-face with a member of my team when I am in D.C.,” said Gov. Lingle.

“After serving 10 years on the Maui County Council, including six years as the Molokai member, and eight years as Maui County Mayor, I know residents on the neighbor islands desire this type of personal contact with their representatives. Implementing these island-specific advisory boards, along with a full-time staff person, will be an important component of my plan to communicate with all of the constituents I serve, if elected,” added Gov. Lingle.

# # # #

One of the presidents we honored with the Presidents Day holiday this past weekend had some advice to give that is ESPECIALLY appropriate, given the circumstances we face in our nation and in political discourse. And that bit of advice comes from our first President, George Washington.

In his farewell speech, one of the points President Washington made was a warning about political parties. He saw in them the potential to become divisive and counterproductive to the best interests of America’s peoples, and all you have to do is look at the state of affairs in Washington to see that there was some truth to his statement.

Political parties do have beneficial aspects for helping improve life for Americans: they help in organizing and informing people about issues and candidates, and ensuring important issues are dealt with, discussed and debated. But I see both political parties losing focus on those important missions, and as a result, good ideas that could truly help people are dying on the vine because of partisan gridlock that cares more about scoring political points than finding solutions. That’s why we as voters need to concentrate on electing leaders like Linda Lingle who will put “people first” ahead of any blind party loyalty.

Watch this short BIPARTISANSHIP: It’s in Hawaii’s Best Interest spot on YouTube (http://youtu.be/k4EwkIeeYK0 ), and I think you’ll agree that Gov. Lingle’s proven record of success in working with people of different views, and yes political parties, is what we need in Washington.

I hope your week has been productive thus far, and be safe this weekend!

Best,
Bob Lee (Major General ret.)
Campaign Manager, Linda Lingle Senate Committee

I hope your weekend is going well. The Lingle Senate Campaign Social Media presence passed another barometer mark: Our Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/Lingle2012) now has more than 1,300 “likes.” That means in a little over 4 months, we’ve continued to reach further into the thriving, populated online environment here in Hawaii and on the mainland, connecting with voters, supporters and others who are getting informed about Gov. Lingle on the ISSUES.

Because that’s what it comes down to: Who has the issues, who’s on the right side of the issues, and who has a specific, detailed plan for helping increase economic and job opportunities for Hawaii and the rest of our nation. And Gov. Lingle is clearly the best choice for Hawaii in these areas, chiefly because of her commitment to always put “people first” in her approach to public office.

Have you SEEN the ISSUES-based videos yet? If not, I highly recommend taking a few minutes to watch them. They’re not very long, but they distinguish Governor by her recognition that the issues our nation faces are too diverse and too significant to ignore. Her leadership is focused on the fact that we must all work together to overcome these challenges. Try starting off with the first overview spot: http://youtu.be/BjdxPL3Oepw

Enjoy your weekend, and for those of you who have Monday off, I hope your 3-day weekend continues to be outstanding!

Best,
Bob Lee (Major General ret.)
Campaign Manager, Linda Lingle Senate Committee

I’m sure many of you saw the troubling news regarding a recent Congressional Budget Office report that reflected the sour state of our economy, underscoring the need to quickly right this ship of our nation. In a CBO report released Thursday, the CBO stated that after three years with unemployment topping 8 percent, the U.S. has seen the longest period of high unemployment since the Great Depression.

I’ve seen it myself, and Governor Lingle daily remarks to me about traveling throughout our state and seeing island residents hurting because of lack of jobs and lack of possibilities. There’s this sense among folks here in Hawaii that there is no one in Washington who recognizes this stark reality they face daily.

I tell you flat out that Gov. Lingle is just the person to help change that culture in Washington, where partisan gridlock is derailing any chance we have at real, lasting recovery. She recognizes we need to restore in businesses – the job creators – some confidence in the future so that they can plan accordingly.

Regulatory uncertainty kills jobs. If a business doesn’t know what’s going to happen, or how many thousands of new pages in new rules and regulations it will have to follow or comply with, then they’re not going to invest — in spending or in hiring new people.

If you haven’t yet, please take a look at this video on this important issue: http://youtu.be/DyN_Jd1It9Q . Gov. Lingle’s multifaceted plan includes ensuring government is smart about new rules and regulations, and that it operates in a way that allows businesses to plan for the future and flourish, and that means a better economy and jobs for people here at home in Hawaii. It’s why she’s all about putting “people first.”

Enjoy your weekend.

Best,
Bob Lee (Major General ret.)
Campaign Manager
Linda Lingle Senate Committee

For immediate release: February 13, 2012

HONOLULU FIRE DEPARTMENT RETIREES ASSOCIATION ENDORSES LINDA LINGLE FOR U.S. SENATE

HONOLULU – Retired Fire Chief Donald Chang, the President of the Honolulu Fire Department Retirees Association, announced today that the organization of more than 800 members is endorsing Governor Linda Lingle for Hawaii’s open U.S. Senate seat.

“Governor Lingle has always fought to protect and support our jobs, our pensions and most importantly our families. At every level of government where she has served — Maui Councilwoman to Mayor to Governor — she always kept her promises,” said the organization’s president, retired Fire Chief Donald Chang. “Hawaii needs the experience and determination of Governor Lingle to serve us well in Washington, especially now when promises made to seniors and retirees are in jeopardy,” Chang added.

“I’m humbled and honored to be endorsed by the Honolulu Fire Department Retirees Association, a group of wonderful public servants I deeply respect. These individuals have dedicated their lives to public safety and it is now our turn to protect their livelihood in retirement,” said Governor Lingle. “Our kupuna are among millions of Americans who have planned their retirements on pensions, Social Security and Medicare. Our federal government made these promises to them, and they are promises I intend to ensure we keep.”

Gov. Lingle has addressed the protection of Social Security and Medicare for those Americans receiving or soon to be receiving the programs’ benefits, a key component of her campaign:

“Like my father, millions of retirees and seniors need this money and as a nation, we have to be willing to live up to those commitments,” said Gov. Lingle. “But this system demands immediate action and reform: Sitting back and doing nothing is irresponsible and simply not an option. We need to act now to ensure Social Security and Medicare will remain solvent when today’s younger workforce reaches retirement age,” Gov. Lingle added.

The Honolulu Fire Department Retirees Association previously endorsed Governor Lingle in her gubernatorial campaign in 2002 and her re-election campaign in 2006.

Additional information on the Linda Lingle Senate campaign is available at www.Lingle2012.com. Follow the campaign on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Lingle2012, on Twitter at www.twitter.com/Lingle2012, and on YouTube at www.YouTube.com/Lingle2012.

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 PAID FOR BY LINDA LINGLE SENATE COMMITTEE

I hope your week is headed in the right direction. Governor Lingle is in good spirits after her U.S. Senate campaign received another boost of support in the form of an important formal endorsement on Monday.

The Honolulu Fire Department Retirees Association announced Monday that the organization of more than 800 members is endorsing Governor Linda Lingle for Hawaii’s open U.S. Senate seat. Governor Lingle has always put the men and women who guard our public safety at the forefront of her decision-making, and this endorsement, along with the recent SHOPO announcement, is another recognition of that fact.

“Governor Lingle has always fought to protect and support our jobs, our pensions and most importantly our families. At every level of government where she has served – Maui Councilwoman to Mayor to Governor – she always kept her promises,” said the
 organization’s president, retired Fire Chief Donald Chang. “Hawaii needs the experience and determination of Governor Lingle to serve us well in Washington, especially now when promises made to seniors and retirees are in jeopardy,” Chang added.

These veteran firefighters have been around the block a few times, and so they know when a politician TRULY has their best interests at heart, and will keep their promises. The issues that are top of mind for them are similar to those of our kupuna everywhere, and it speaks volumes that they feel Governor is the best candidate to reflect their interests in the U.S. Senate.

The public support and willingness to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Governor on this campaign and the issues we face together is a great credit to them and it’s endorsement is one that Governor is humbled to have. Make sure you check out our Social Media today for updates on this important announcement, pictures and video, and be sure to share with your friends via Facebook, Twitter or e-mail!

Enjoy your day, and until next time,

Best,

Bob Lee (Major General ret.)

Campaign Manager, Linda Lingle Senate Committee

For immediate release: February 13, 2012

HONOLULU FIRE DEPARTMENT RETIREES ASSOCIATION ENDORSES LINDA LINGLE FOR U.S. SENATE

HONOLULU – Retired Fire Chief Donald Chang, the President of the Honolulu Fire Department Retirees Association, announced today that the organization of more than 800 members is endorsing Governor Linda Lingle for Hawaii’s open U.S. Senate seat.

“Governor Lingle has always fought to protect and support our jobs, our pensions and most importantly our families. At every level of government where she has served — Maui Councilwoman to Mayor to Governor — she always kept her promises,” said the organization’s president, retired Fire Chief Donald Chang. “Hawaii needs the experience and determination of Governor Lingle to serve us well in Washington, especially now when promises made to seniors and retirees are in jeopardy,” Chang added.

“I’m humbled and honored to be endorsed by the Honolulu Fire Department Retirees Association, a group of wonderful public servants I deeply respect. These individuals have dedicated their lives to public safety and it is now our turn to protect their livelihood in retirement,” said Governor Lingle. “Our kupuna are among millions of Americans who have planned their retirements on pensions, Social Security and Medicare. Our federal government made these promises to them, and they are promises I intend to ensure we keep.”

Gov. Lingle has addressed the protection of Social Security and Medicare for those Americans receiving or soon to be receiving the programs’ benefits, a key component of her campaign:

“Like my father, millions of retirees and seniors need this money and as a nation, we have to be willing to live up to those commitments,” said Gov. Lingle. “But this system demands immediate action and reform: Sitting back and doing nothing is irresponsible and simply not an option. We need to act now to ensure Social Security and Medicare will remain solvent when today’s younger workforce reaches retirement age,” Gov. Lingle added.

The Honolulu Fire Department Retirees Association previously endorsed Governor Lingle in her gubernatorial campaign in 2002 and her re-election campaign in 2006.

Additional information on the Linda Lingle Senate campaign is available at www.Lingle2012.com. Follow the campaign on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Lingle2012, on Twitter at www.twitter.com/Lingle2012, and on YouTube at www.YouTube.com/Lingle2012.

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 PAID FOR BY LINDA LINGLE SENATE COMMITTEE

STATEMENT FROM CAMPAIGN MANAGER BOB LEE

HONOLULU – Campaign Manager for the Linda Lingle Senate Committee, Bob Lee, released the following statement today.

“In a recent email to supporters, Mazie Hirono’s campaign manager blasted the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, dubbing it a ‘Republican-leaning … mainland special interest group.’

“Curiously, Mazie Hirono’s campaign manager previously had proudly touted the fact that the Chamber of Commerce is ‘supporting the VISIT USA Act,’ a bill Hirono co-sponsored, mirrored by a similar bill in the U.S. Senate.

“The U.S. Chamber of Commerce, whose single mission is ‘to strengthen the competitiveness of the U.S. economy,’ is far from a special interest group. Their advocacy for legislation and candidates is representative of diverse political interests.  In a desperate attempt to compete with Governor Linda Lingle’s issues-based campaign, Mazie and her team are resorting to partisan scare tactics, buzz words and Washington-style politics in a inept attempt to incite fear in Hawaii voters.

“Unfortunately for Hirono, you can’t talk out of both sides of your mouth.  On one hand, Hirono is calling the Chamber of Commerce a friend when they support her legislation, and in the same breath she tars the organization as a shadowy ‘mainland’ enemy because it also supports her opponent’s job-creation plan.

“The people of Hawaii know we’ve seen this type of inconsistent, ineffective behavior from Mazie before. One thing is abundantly clear: Mazie just doesn’t understand the issues. If she did, she would support good job-creating ideas, no matter where they come from.

“If, after six years in Washington, Mazie doesn’t get it, she will never will.”

- Bob Lee, Campaign Manager, Linda Lingle Senate Committee

ABOUT THE U.S. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE:

*The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business organization representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions. Its members range from mom-and-pop shops and local chambers to leading industry associations and large corporations. The organization has one overarching mission – to strengthen the competitiveness of the U.S. economy. It’s long history includes support of immediate job-creating legislation, including:

- The 2011 BUILD Act, bipartisan-sponsored legislation to create a new infrastructure bank to help finance infrastructure projects, help close America’s widening infrastructure gap, create jobs throughout the next decade, and strengthen America’s competitive position. The legislation’s key supporters were U.S. Chamber of Commerce and AFL-CIO.

- The 2011 VISIT USA Act, bipartisan-sponsored legislation which attempts to ease travel restrictions to the United States, and promote tourism.

- The 2010, Small Business Jobs and Credit Act, Democrat-sponsored legislation to create the Small Business Lending Fund Program to direct the Secretary of the Treasury to make capital investments in eligible institutions in order to increase the availability of credit for small businesses.

# # # #

I hope your weekend is going well. This chilly weather we’ve been having has been decidedly “un-Hawaii,” but hopefully we’ll get back to the usual, beautiful warm weather we all know and love very soon.

This week I had the opportunity to spend some time with those wonderful members of the Greatest Generation, the “Go For Broke” 100th Battalion veterans who get together regularly at the 100th Battalion Clubhouse.  The boys were celebrating Ed Ikuma’s 93rd birthday, and there’s a YouTube clip of the fellas singing to Ed here: http://youtu.be/f79LJEIV66A . I can’t say enough about what an honor it’s been over the last year, to have taken part in the ceremonies honoring the 442nd/100th and what they did for our country and the world in preserving freedom. They’re a special bunch, and every chance I get to talk story with them is precious to me.

I was very pleased with the new ad that the U.S. Chamber of Commerce started running here in Hawaii in support of Governor Lingle. If you haven’t seen it on television yet, you can watch it on YouTube as well at http://youtu.be/HmdU_A6hLGI . The message is STRONG and POSITIVE: Governor is uniquely qualified because of her PROVEN bipartisan record and ability to work WITH various groups to find common-sense solutions to the challenges we face. The other side is attacking Gov. Lingle, drudging up the same old, tired, partisan diatribes they have used for years.

The people of Hawaii know better, and have gone tone-deaf on these statements.

As an answer to their charges, I released the following statement to the media:

“It’s clear that both local and national Democrat Party leaders have concluded that Mazie Hirono’s lack of achievements or vision for Hawaii’s future have left them only one choice–Washington DC-style personal attacks against Governor Linda Lingle.

“Fortunately for our campaign, Governor Lingle’s record of success is well-known and her vision for the future is well-articulated. They will not be able to fool the people of Hawaii.

“After nine months as an official candidate, Mazie’s official website is nearly empty, without a word about what she would do if she gets elected. This lack of substance speaks for itself. Enough said.”

Enjoy your weekend and until next time,

Best regards,

Bob Lee
U.S. Army (Ret.)
Campaign Manager, Linda Lingle Senate Committee

Stan Sheriff Center
University of Hawaii at Manoa

Governor Lingle will attend the FIRST in Hawaii Regional Robotics Competition. This year’s game, REBOUND RUMBLE, will feature nearly 40 teams of Hawaii’s brightest Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) students showing off their advanced STEM skills as part of a nationwide contest within this regional event. 

Visit http://www.hawaiiroc.org/first-robotics for more information.

We’re right in the thick of our campaign hunt to elect Governor Lingle to the U.S. Senate. She remarks daily to me about how grateful she is for the overwhelming support she is receiving from around the state.

As you know, it’s absolutely critical we elect leaders like Gov. Lingle who will always put “people first” ahead of blind party allegiance.

I want to share with you the exciting news that we are seeing a sustained increase in volunteers who are signing up, many for the first time ever in a political campaign, in an effort to make a difference for our next generation. The issues are too important to just sit by and do nothing, and it’s a credit to them that they are “all in” on this. Click here to sign up to volunteer if you haven’t already: http://www.lingle2012.com/volunteer-hawaii-senator/

If you haven’t yet, be sure to watch and share the new campaign spot we just released this past week: “Bipartisanship: It’s in Hawaii’s Best Interest.” You can click here (http://youtu.be/k4EwkIeeYK0 ) to watch it, and be sure to post it to your Facebook walls, send it out via Twitter, or simply share the video link to people in your email address book.

I hope your week gets off to a great start, and until next time,

Major General Robert Lee
U.S. Army (Ret.)
Campaign Manager, Linda Lingle Senate Committee

For immediate release: Feb. 2, 2011

LINDA LINGLE SENATE CAMPAIGN RELEASES NEW SPOT
Bipartisanship: It’s in Hawaii’s Best Interest 

HONOLULU – Former Hawaii Governor and current U.S. Senate candidate Linda Lingle released today a new video spot (http://youtu.be/k4EwkIeeYK0) highlighting her commitment to bipartisanship.

With Congressional approval ratings at an all-time low, it is absolutely critical that our next U.S. Senator have the experience and leadership to break through the partisan gridlock and find solutions to create more jobs and stimulate the economy. Gov. Lingle’s proven record and commitment to bipartisanship are essential to accomplishing this goal at home and across the nation.

Always putting Hawaii’s “people first,” Gov. Lingle believes that the most effective means to overcoming the challenges facing our state and country are common-sense solutions. In this spot on bipartisanship, Gov. Lingle explains that her commitment to bipartisanship puts people over politics, allowing her to make a decision based on what is best for our communities.

Gov. Lingle points out her service as a founding member of the Governor’s Council of the Bipartisan Policy Center, a leading national think tank. Members of the Governor’s Council focus on building bipartisan support for solutions to issues facing our country.

The first step toward building solutions to spur job creation and the economy is to look at the merits of a solution as opposed to which party proposed it, according to Governor Lingle. In her words, “if what is being proposed is good for Hawaii, in the long term, I am for it. If it’s not in our interest, I will fight against it, no matter who proposed it.”

Additional information on the Linda Lingle Senate campaign is available at www.Lingle2012.com. Follow the campaign on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Lingle2012, on Twitter at www.twitter.com/Lingle2012, and on YouTube at www.YouTube.com/Lingle2012.

By: David Catanese
February 1, 2012 01:00 AM EST

Bob Kerrey is buying property in Omaha, and Heidi Heitkamp just put up an impressive debut fundraising quarter, but the Senate contests in Nebraska and North Dakota still strongly favor the Republicans in November.

In the first Senate Monthly 10 of 2012 — stacking up the most competitive contests in the country — Virginia reclaims the crown as the toughest race to call, and Nevada looks increasingly headed to a photo finish.

[…]

8. Hawaii (up 1 spot)

Evidence is mounting that the Aloha State could offer the biggest surprise of the cycle. Former Gov. Linda Lingle flexed her fundraising muscles with a $1.7 million quarter. Meanwhile, the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee was forced to push back against a Civil Beat poll showing former Rep. Ed Case leading its preferred candidate, Rep. Mazie Hirono.

Who won January: Lingle

Latest poll: Hirono 46 percent, Lingle 39 percent (Honolulu Civil Beat/MRG, 1,358 likely voters, Jan. 18-19)

I hope your week is continuing to be a productive one. We’ve seen what a positive reaction our latest fundraising reports has caused, both in terms of coverage in the news and excitement among voters around the country who share Linda Lingle’s values of fiscal discipline, support for small business. If you didn’t see the full statement, go read it here, and you’ll easily see why we are so ecstatic that your financial commitment and support to these values enabled Governor to surpass her 4th Quarter Goal for fundraising: http://www.lingle2012.com/news-releases/lingle-fundraising-goal-senate/

And likely due at least in part to the strong outpouring of financial support for Governor, the Cook Political Report, a widely respected political news analytical outlet, continues to keep our race in the “Toss Up” category. http://www.lingle2012.com/news-releases/cook-political-report-lingle-senate-tossup/

One of the issues Governor is focused on in her campaign is the looming challenge of keeping Medicare effective for our kupuna and ensuring Social Security’s solvency. There’s no question she is committed to making good on the promises our country has made to our retirees and seniors. As she put it last week, “As a country, as a nation, we have to be willing to live up to those commitments.”

But our system is in immediate need of practical solutions. Governor said, “If you hear anybody tell you everything is going to stay the same, that is not possible. Both systems would collapse if everything stayed the same.” That’s the truth, and believe me, there are a lot of politicians who will very quickly make promises about entitlements.

As Governor said, “Politicians will stand up and tell you, ‘I’m going to protect Medicare and Social Security and there will never be any changes. We’re going to keep it just the way it is.’ When a candidate tells you that, you know a couple of things about them right away. They don’t understand the issue — they don’t understand the magnitude of the problem that we face. And they’re not willing to be honest with the people of Hawaii. If you hear anybody tell you everything is going to stay the same, that is not possible. Both systems would collapse if everything stayed the same.”

Please take a moment and look at this link to see a more detailed plan for how Gov. Lingle expects that our country can overcome this challenge we face together: http://www.lingle2012.com/hawaii-issues-politics/#social.

I hope your week gets off to a great start.

Enjoy your day today, and until the weekend,

Major General Robert Lee
U.S. Army (Ret.)
Campaign Manager, Linda Lingle Senate Committee

Candidate predicts Hawaii will be battleground for control of Senate

January 28, 2012

By Chris Hamilton – Staff Writer (chamilton@mauinews.com) , The Maui News

I know many of you are excited about the Pro Bowl weekend. Lots of events and activities and excitement going on around Aloha Stadium. And who can blame folks for being excited? Not only is this a great, rare opportunity for many of us to see these professional athletes and their abilities up close — the associated business activities, spending and tourism that comes along with an event of this magnitude is a great shot in the arm for our Hawaii economy. I know each year Gov. Lingle was grateful to have that kind of positive impact to count on around the same time of year, recognizing it for the economic and social asset it is for our state and residents.

Speaking of enthusiasm and excitement, we’ve been seeing a TON of it on the campaign trail. Have you seen the latest video?  Some of your friends have gone on camera talking about what it is about Gov. Lingle that makes them committed to her campaign…”people first.” See it for yourself here: http://youtu.be/MXrHHezwQ8k .

But enthusiasm alone won’t accomplish the task we set out to accomplish on Oct. 11 when Governor announced her candidacy for Senate. We NEED your financial support too. Can you click here to please donate and show your financial commitment to common-sense solutions, bipartisan cooperation, and fiscal discipline in government? https://secure.campaignsolutions.com/lingleforsenate/donation1/Default.aspx?initiativekey=N3I0XZBVGWAB

Enjoy your weekend, and be sure to share these two links with your friends. The more people we can get informed the more people will become aware of what an outstanding candidate – and best choice – we have in Linda Lingle for Senate.

Enjoy your day today, and until Monday, aloha…

Major General Robert Lee
U.S. Army (Ret.)
Campaign Manager, Linda Lingle Senate Committee

January 26, 2012

The Cook Political Report’s 2012 SENATE RACE RATINGS:

Hawaii race REMAINS in the Toss Up category.

Senate Lineup: 51 Democrats, 47 Republicans, 2 Independent(s)

Solid: These races are not considered competitive and are not likely to become closely contested.
Likely: These seats are not considered competitive at this point but have the potential to become engaged.
Lean: These are considered competitive races but one party has an advantage.
Toss Up: These are the most competitive races; either party has a good chance of winning.

For Immediate Release: January 25, 2012

HONOLULU – Former Governor Linda Lingle’s U.S. Senate campaign is continuing to gain momentum with today’s release of her 2011 fourth quarter fundraising numbers, which topped her personal expectations and goal.

An overview of the fourth quarter Federal Election Commission (FEC) campaign report shows that in just 82 days (Oct. 11-Dec. 31, 2011), 1545 individual donors, plus political action committees (PACs) and Partnerships, contributed $1,767,310.42 to the Linda Lingle U.S. Senate campaign, of which nearly 44% was raised from generous supporters in Hawaii.

“I am very grateful for the strong support the community has shown me in the first two and a half months of my campaign for U.S. Senate. Contributors not only have supported me financially, but they have invited me into their homes and businesses to discuss issues important to their families and companies, including the economy and jobs, and Social Security and Medicare,” said Gov. Linda Lingle. “In these difficult economic times, I am honored and humbled to have so many local donors and such a significant amount of contributions from voters across the state,” Gov. Lingle added.

Since announcing her candidacy on October 11, 2011, Gov. Lingle has traveled around the state meeting with residents about her plans to stimulate the economy to spur job creation for our state and country. She has been inspired by the thousands of citizens who have shown their support through grassroots involvement and financial
investment in her campaign.

“It is clear that Linda Lingle’s history of working with diverse groups has resonated well with the people of Hawaii,” said Major General (ret.) Bob Lee, campaign manager. “Her positions on key issues are in line with the values of the people of Hawaii. Voters have recognized that Linda Lingle will bring her executive experience and independent, common-sense solutions to the United States Senate and she will always put ‘people first’ above party politics,” Lee added.

A complete fundraising report was filed today with the Federal Elections Commission by the Linda Lingle Senate Committee according to federal campaign regulations.

# # # #

Governor Lingle’s ability and proven record of working with diverse groups is something that resonates particularly well with people in Hawaii. And there’s no question that her positions on key issues are in line with the values of the people of Hawaii. Like me, so many of you recognize the importance of electing Linda Lingle so that she can bring her executive experience and independent, common-sense solutions to the United States Senate. The reason? We know she will always put ‘people first’ above party politics.

Monday marked the start of the Chinese Lunar New Year — we are officially into the Year of the Dragon. May it see prosperity, blessings and good health for us all. Governor Lingle had a chance recently to join in on early Year of the Dragon festivities at Market City Shopping Center. Our Social Media team has those photos posted to the Facebook page. Click here to view photos of that event: http://ow.ly/8B7MK.

On Monday, we heard the State of the State address from our Governor, and Tuesday we heard the State of the Union from our President. One thing is clear, that we will continue to face a difficult road ahead. Our suffering economy, lack of jobs, lack of confidence among small business owners, and a political climate that cares more about partisan gain than doing what is in citizens’ best interests are all challenges that we as an electorate must address.

Linda Lingle believes that by working together we can overcome partisan divisions, and she’s committed to making her entire Senate campaign about these vital issues. She sees tourism as an industry ripe for creating jobs and benefiting the economy. Watch this short video to see more of her insights on this issue: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eXlTS5fHO2k

And as for the economy, it makes perfect sense to support her position that growing our economy is the only way to escape the crushing burden of our nation’s mounting debt. We can’t pass along the burden of responsibility for this debt to our keiki and grandchildren. Watch this short video for more on her ideas on how to solve this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jFVgxZO8NwE .

I hope is off to a productive start.  Remember, these tasks before us are challenging, but I share Governor Lingle’s belief that we truly can achieve success together.

Enjoy your day today, and until next week,

Major General Robert Lee
U.S. Army (Ret.)
Campaign Manager, Linda Lingle Senate Committee

“Particularly painful is that the devastating loss of this fine young man and father occurred while he was trying to help stranded motorists on the H-1. It is not the first time Officer Davis has put his own life in jeopardy to save someone else, and all Hawaii residents are indebted for his brave, unselfish service.

“This should serve as a call to all of us to drive with care and aloha, be patient, and always be aware of road conditions so that these brave men and women, Hawaii’s Finest, are not in any more jeopardy than necessary while performing their duties on Hawaii’s roadways.

“I extend my heartfelt condolences to the Davis ‘ohana and his young daughter in their time of grief.”

Linda Lingle

I hope your Sunday is going well, and your weekend is finishing up on a nice note. I know a lot of you have been hearing something we’ve been saying a lot of during this campaign: And that’s how Gov. Lingle is committed to staying true to her guiding philosophy of putting Hawaii’s “people first.”

It’s more than a catch phrase, or campaign slogan: It’s borne out in her actions. Take, for instance, this past week, which saw our own President Obama announcing initiatives aimed at making it easier for citizens of China and Brazil to visit the United States. Because Governor cares more about what’s best for Hawaii’s people, as opposed to what’s best for a political party, she stepped forward and made it clear she SUPPORTS the President on this important tourism policy issue, and vowed that if elected, she would support this and other tourism-focused policies that would benefit Hawaii, America, and our economy.

Too often, we see good ideas die on the vine because one political party refuses to support it for fear of the other party gaining favor with voters. It’s worse than cutting off one’s nose to spite one’s face: They’re cutting off OUR nose to spite their opponent’s face. Too many people are out of work, and too many families are hurting for us to waste time bickering over common-sense solutions based on who gets credit.

We need leaders like Gov. Lingle in Washington to put the people’s interests ahead of blind partisan loyalty.

Enjoy your day, and until next time,

Major General Robert Lee
U.S. Army (Ret.)
Campaign Manager, Linda Lingle Senate Committee

Gov. Linda Lingle Proposes Industry-based Guidelines

“I have been monitoring the issue of how best to address copyright infringement and intellectual property piracy occurring via foreign websites.

“Two current bills pending in the U.S. Congress, the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) and the Protect Intellectual Property Act (PIPA), would give broad reaching powers to the Department of Justice to shut down or severely curtail American internet companies, search engines, and sites who connect to these foreign sources.

“I share the concern of many internet users and members of Congress, that these legislative proposals have not been thoroughly vetted.  I am strongly committed to the protection of intellectual property and believe those involved in the industry are best suited to work together to develop policing and enforcement systems that can address the perpetrators.

“International examples exist for setting standards and allowing industry officials to use independent third parties to ensure these standards are adhered to.  Underwriters Laboratory and ISO 9001 (International Organization of Standardization for quality management controls) are two such examples.

“As Senator, I would work to develop public-private cooperative efforts that address piracy and copyright infringement without the potential of government censorship that the current legislative proposals would permit.”

-Gov. Linda Lingle
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For immediate release: January 19, 2012

HONOLULU – Former Governor Linda Lingle, candidate for Hawaii’s U.S. Senate seat, released the following statement after President Obama announced a plan this morning to boost tourism and travel.

“President Obama’s statements in Florida today are in line with the tourism-boosting programs and initiatives I advocated and worked for while Governor of Hawaii. If I am elected, I would be pleased to support the President’s tourism focused policies. With tourism and related businesses making up nearly 10% of our nation’s GDP and employing more than 14 million Americans, we need a strong, coordinated policy at the federal level to address tourism issues, including streamlining the visa process and expanding the Visa Waiver Program. Through a common sense approach to tourism policy and welcoming more of our neighbors from abroad, we can create more jobs in Hawaii and help restore the American economy,” said Governor Linda Lingle

As Governor, Lingle traveled to China in 2005 to meet with Shao Qiwei, the chairman of the Chinese National Tourism Administration, where she laid groundwork for an agreement between the State of Hawaii and China to increase two-way travel. In 2009, Gov. Lingle met with then U.S. Ambassador to China Jon Huntsman to establish certainty for interview times for Chinese travelers applying for a visa, designating a “trouble-shooting” point-of-contact at each U.S. consulate in China to focus on visa issuance and a process to facilitate last-minute travel applications. With the average Chinese tourist spending $325 a day in Hawaii, easing the travel process will inject more cash into the local economy, the former governor explained.

“As the former Mayor of the County of Maui and Governor of the State of Hawaii, I have had extensive experience with fostering the development and refinement of the hospitality industry in a manner that respects the host culture while giving our visitors a memorable experience that encourages repeat visits. As Senator, I intend to be an active policy advocate for the development and expansion of tourism as a key component of America’s economic recovery. I will work to develop a coordinated federal policy that includes expanding the visa waiver program and expediting the issuance of visas to overseas visitors without compromising national security.

“The President’s plan to boost processing capacity for non-immigrant visas in major U.S. bound travel markets like China and Brazil and expand the Visa Waiver Program is a good policy for America and will benefit Hawaii’s tourism industry. During my 2005 trip to South Korea, I led a 50-member delegation of Hawaii state officials and business leaders to promote travel to our islands and better understand the visa application procedure Korean citizens must endure in order to visit the United States. After personally visiting the U.S. Embassy and experiencing the lengthy process, my Administration and I focused on developing a special policy with the U.S. Embassy in Seoul to give preferential visa reviews to Korean citizens who hoped to celebrate their honeymoons in Hawaii. We also lobbied the U.S. State Department and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to grant Korea a visa waiver country status in order to significantly increase tourism to Hawaii.  I am pleased to say the U.S. granted the visa waiver in 2008 which now allows South Koreans to travel to the America for up to 90 days without going through the burdensome visa process. Expanding this program will open Hawaii to more economic opportunities, serving our international partners as the gateway to the West,” Gov. Lingle added.

According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, if tourism in the United States could be restored to the year 2000 levels of visitors to the country, 1.3 million jobs would be created.

Governor Lingle’s policy statement on the visitor industry can be read on her campaign website at http://www.lingle2012.com/hawaii-issues-politics/#visitor.

A video on the Governor’s tourism focus can be viewed at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N4ESxlW8u_Y&feature=autoplay&list=PLD3FCDD20DE3D3EFE&playnext=1

Additional information on the Linda Lingle Senate campaign is available at www.Lingle2012.com. Follow the campaign on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Lingle2012, on Twitter at www.twitter.com/Lingle2012, and on YouTube at www.YouTube.com/Lingle2012.

Visit http://olrw.org/feb-2nd-2012-luncheon for more information.

We cordially invite you to attend a luncheon in support of Governor Linda Lingle for United States Senate featuring special guest, Steve Forbes, chairman of Forbes Media and editor-in-chief of Forbes Magazine.

Luncheon – $250 PER PERSON
VIP/Luncheon – $2,500 PER PERSON

RSVP:
Kari Hofer
kari@lingle2012.com
(808) 298-8057

Earlier in the week, the Golden Globe Awards turned into an incredibly popular topic and show here at home in Hawaii, thanks to the outstanding movie “The Descendants,” which was nominated for so many categories.

The movie, which picked up two Golden Globes for Best Picture and Best Actor, is based on the novel by local girl, Kaui Hart Hemmings, whose father Sen. Fred Hemmings is one proud father, I can assure you. I also know that Governor Lingle has been following the development and success of this movie closely.   She is a movie buff and fan of good filmmaking, but she is also attuned to this particular film because of the role she and her administration played in this movie being produced here in Hawaii.

She shared with me how much she thought of Director Alexander Payne and Producer Jim Burke, and what a great experience it was to meet with them prior to filming to help facilitate it here in Hawaii and to ensure Hawaii was presented in an appropriate light. The movie industry has brought a lot of jobs, is creating a positive impact on Hawaii’s economy and was a key focus of Gov. Lingle’s Administration (in addition to “The Descendents,” the Lingle Administration helped secure the filming of many other blockbuster films and television shows in our islands). I thought it was touching that at the end of Alexander Payne’s speech Sunday night, he took a moment to thank the people of Hawaii.

If you haven’t yet, go see the movie. Governor and I both think it’s excellent and deserves congratulations for its recognition at the Golden Globes.

Enjoy your day today, and until next week,

Major General Robert Lee
U.S. Army (Ret.)
Campaign Manager, Linda Lingle Senate Committee

Linda Lingle, former Hawaii governor and current candidate for U.S. Senate, wants to bring balanced representation to Washington, D.C.

Lingle spoke to several dozen business owners at a Thursday luncheon at Courtyard King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel, during a series of appearances across the state.

“The hardest part of the job is leaving Hawaii, but I want to bring balance to D.C.,” she said. “I’m excited about the possibilities if we can get some common sense in Washington. I don’t think America’s best days are over by a long shot.”

Lingle, a Republican, is seeking the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Democrat Daniel Akaka, who is retiring after 22 years.

She countered the arguments she is sure will be made by senior Sen. Daniel Inouye and President Barack Obama, both Democrats.

For example, Inouye will argue if the Republicans gain in the Senate, he will lose the powerful Appropriations Committee chairmanship.

Lingle said the Republicans could win majority in the Senate anyway, which would leave Hawaii without any representation.

“It would be worse to have no-one from the state in the majority party,” she said. “It’s best to have a foot in both camps.”

Obama likely will campaign for the Democratic candidate and urge Hawaii voters to help him get the U.S. back on track.

Lingle said she will fight to keep the two races – Senate and presidential – separate.

The president serves only four year terms, she said, while senators can serve for decades. No incumbent Hawaii senator has ever been defeated, she noted.

Regardless of who wins in November, Lingle said, “this U.S. senator will serve us for a generation. The No. 1 obligation is to the people who sent you to D.C., not the party.”

Lingle has long worked with Inuoye and believes they would make a strong team for Hawaii. She said she has several friends in the Senate, leaders who were governors during her tenure, and has established relationships with Republican leaders.

Lingle said she is used to working both parties, and sits on the Governor’s Council of the Bipartisan Policy Center think tank. As mayor and governor, she has had the opportunity to “go out and do things” that her likely opponents have not.

A top priority would be to make sure tourism and tourism-related issues are addressed. The industry supports 14 million jobs nationwide and accounts for 9.5 percent of the country’s GDP, she said.

“And there is not even a sub-committee on tourism. There used to be, but there isn’t now,” she said. “I’d like to change that.”

Lingle said her time as governor allowed her to establish relationships in many Pacific Rim countries, including China, Japan, Korea and the Philippines. Good relations with those countries are critical to the U.S. not only for tourism and trade, but for national security, she said.

Like the Middle East, the Pacific has the potential to be a military and national security hotspot. For that reason, Lingle said, “PacCom (Pacific Command) must be fully funded and ready.”

Lingle pointed out she has experience in the business arena, as founder/publisher of the Molokai Free Press. Lingle went on to serve two terms as Maui mayor before losing the 1998 governor’s race by 1 percent of the votes.

Lingle won the 2002 governor’s race, campaigning on the slogan ‘Hawaii is open for business” and winning all 51 districts.

Her philosophy was to find a way to make it happen for people who wanted to create jobs, and she said that experience will carry over well in today’s economic climate.

“Government doesn’t create jobs,” she said. “It needs to create an atmosphere to encourage people to take risks and invest.”

Lingle said she has a four-pronged approach to creating jobs and restoring confidence for job creators: tax reform; immigration reform; regulatory reform; and lawsuit reform.

Chunks of the 14,000-page tax code have outlived their usefulness, she said. Loopholes, special interests and exemptions need an overhaul.

Lingle acknowledged the right to sue is important, but would like to see some form of ‘loser pays’ instituted to protect innocent people and prevent frivolous lawsuits.

On immigration, Lingle said she would take the focus off ‘illegal’ and concentrate on ‘legal.’ Noting college students often want to stay in the U.S. after graduation and invest in this country, Lingle said she’d consider “stapling a green card right to that diploma.”

As for regulatory reform, Lingle champions a jobs impact study pre-requisite for any new business regulations.

Many of her ideas for the country mirror the pro-business efforts she made as Hawaii’s governor. “I can’t hide from my record,” she said. “I’m proud of it.”

Lastly, Lingle said she is aware of the huge distance between Hawaii and Washington, and the time difference. She would shift her office hours to be more accessible to residents during regular Hawaii business hours.

Lingle looks likely to be the only viable Republican candidate in the Aug. 11 primary. Democratic candidates include Ed Case and Mazie Hirono.

During her visit to the Big Island, Lingle stopped in Hilo to thank representatives of State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers, which last week endorsed her candidacy.

The visit also included visits with numerous businesses, several hotels and a coffee talk in Waimea.

Today, as you know, is Martin Luther King Jr. Day. We celebrate a truly heroic leader in our nation’s history who left an indelible impression on America in terms of our beliefs about equality, fairness, civil rights and justice. It’s hard to have a conversation about the real heroes that have lived in our country’s past without talking about MLK.

In Hawaii, we are fortunate to have such a diverse melting pot of cultures where that familiarity breaks down walls of distrust, suspicion and even malice that exist in other parts of America. Unfortunately, the current political climate is still upside down.

It’s hard to turn on the TV or radio without some analysts, spokesperson, or a politician ranting about his or her opponent, using insulting words, combative language. It’s that type of petty partisan politics that plagues Washington, D.C., and I believe it’s a big reason why our country is stymied in returning to a strong economy and opportunities for all.

Governor Lingle wants to change that, and her years spent working across party aisles in Hawaii, working with people of all points of view with respect and civility, would be a tremendous asset to our country in this time of need for real leadership. We don’t want politicians in office who simply rubber stamp legislation because it’s what their party commands them to do. We want politicians who will do what they know is right, and we can always trust that Gov. Lingle will do what’s best for Hawaii’s people, regardless of any political party’s agenda. Linda Lingle will always put “people first.”

Have a great day off today, and until next time,

Major General Robert Lee
U.S. Army (Ret.)
Campaign Manager, Linda Lingle Senate Committee

We are at the halfway point through the first month of 2012. Time is going by quickly, and with the election 296 days away, I’m sure the sand will start slipping through the hourglass faster each day.

And, the excitement and energy certainly contributed to time flying by this past week. I’m sure you saw the big news we were thrilled to share: important endorsements from the Association of Builders and Contractors-Hawaii Chapter and National, and also the endorsement from the State of Hawaii Organization for Police Officers (SHOPO). Both organizations represent important sectors in Hawaii: the public safety sector that puts their lives on the line each day to keep us safe; and the building and construction sector that is such an integral part of our economy’s engine.

They both look to Governor Lingle’s leadership qualities and see someone that will champion their mission statements and the best interests of all of Hawaii at the federal level.

We saw strong vocal support from the leadership of SHOPO. “She let us know she was going to run for (U.S.) Senator and we were ecstatic,” SHOPO Board of Directors State Secretary Bryson Ponce said on Kauai. “It was a no-brainer for us that we were going to support her, we were going to endorse her and do everything we can to make sure she is representing us in Washington.”

“Governor Lingle has been a friend to the police officers of Maui County since her days as our Mayor. She continued this support statewide as Governor and we will stand behind her as she seeks to represent us in the U.S. Senate,” said Detective Michael Bates, Maui Chapter, SHOPO.

And Lt. Reed Mahuna of the Hawaii Chapter of the State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers (SHOPO) said, “We have no greater friend that Linda Lingle, who has delivered action and results as related to public safety. Not just rhetoric. In turn, she will have no greater ally in her campaign than the men and women of SHOPO.”

The whole week saw Governor Lingle taking this message of support around the islands, visiting with small business owners and community leaders, to share her message of common-sense solutions, fiscal discipline, and support for the mom-and-pop stores that form the backbone of Hawaii and the nation’s economy.  The bottom line is LINDA LINGLE CONNECTS WITH PEOPLE.

Be sure to look back at the full release of both endorsements on a special page dedicated to highlighting the groups that have officially pledged their commitment to the Linda Lingle Senate Campaign: http://www.lingle2012.com/endorsements-campaign/

Enjoy your Sunday, and until tomorrow,

Major General Robert Lee
U.S. Army (Ret.)
Campaign Manager, Linda Lingle Senate Committee

“We back her 100 percent,” said SHOPO Board of Directors secretary Bryson Ponce, a detective at Kaua‘i Police Department and a 14-year veteran of the force.

“When I received the endorsement at the beginning of this week in Honolulu, we had planned that I could go out and thank the officers across the state,” said Lingle at the Lihu‘e SHOPO headquarters.

Calling herself a “neighbor-island person” for having lived 10 years on Molokai and 13 years on Maui, she said she always felt that neighbor islands are “somehow an after-thought.”

“She let us know she was going to run for (U.S.) Senator and we were ecstatic,” Ponce said. “It was a no-brainer for us that we were going to support her, we were going to endorse her and do everything we can to make sure she is representing us in Washington.”

Lingle served two terms as Maui County mayor before serving as governor from 2002 to 2010.

When SHOPO first endorsed Lingle in her 2002 bid for governor, it was the first time in history that the police officers’ union endorsed a Republican candidate, according to Ponce. SHOPO again endorsed Lingle in her 2006 bid for governor.

“We are so thankful for how instrumental she has been in supporting our police officers through all of her years, not only during her term on Maui but in the state level as well,” said Ponce.

Lingle said SHOPO’s endorsement, from a campaign point of view, is going to be really important because the race for U.S. Senate is going to be tough.

“All my races have been tough races and you’ve helped me in the past and this one will be extremely challenging,” she told SHOPO members.

In 2002 Mazie Hirono won the Democratic primaries for governor against Ed Case, but lost her bid for office when she faced Lingle in the general elections. This year, the race is for the Senate, but the candidates are the same — Case and Hirono are seeking Democratic nomination, and the winner will face off with Lingle.

“If I’m able to win this election, I can be a very clear voice for law enforcement at the federal level,” Lingle said at the Lihu‘e SHOPO headquarters.

Good law enforcement, she said, is an integrated law enforcement involving local police officers and federal officers. Local officers have a better understanding of the “comings and goings” of each community.

Lingle said that from the very first time she was in a leadership position, as Maui mayor, law enforcement was her number one priority. She said SHOPO’s endorsement meant a lot to her personally and gave a boost to her entire campaign.

“We are so excite to work with you in these coming months,” she told SHOPO members. “We’ll just work hard and I know with your support we can win this race, and I look forward to represent you in Washington D.C.”

SHOPO was founded in 1971, according to Ponce. Unions in Hawai‘i have a history of endorsing Democrats, but Ponce said SHOPO feels the endorsement is about the person and what he or she can bring to the table. In Lingle’s case, she brings integrity and efficiency, he said.

Local issues

Lingle said one of the issues on Kaua‘i she is aware of is the struggle between protecting Newell’s shearwaters and allowing Friday night high-school football games at county parks. Stadium lights attract juvenile birds on their maiden flight, disorienting them.

The county has retrofitted some of the stadium lights to minimize harm to the native birds which circle the lights and fall to the ground exhausted.

Football season goes from August through October. Games were traditionally played Friday nights.

Shearwater fledging season is from Sept. 15 through Dec. 15.

Since 2010, stadium lights cannot be turned on during the shearwater season, which has pushed the Friday night games to Saturday mornings, angering many in the community.

Another issue on Kaua‘i mentioned by Lingle is beach access restrictions imposed at the Pacific Missile Range Facility after 9/11 (See story at left). She said it has been more than 10 years since the terrorist attacks in New York, and the public must be able to enjoy the Westside beaches.

See “PMRF beach access since 9/11” on the side for PMRF’s response.

WAILUKU – Former Gov. Linda Lingle said Tuesday that she would work with members of both parties if elected to the U.S. Senate, but also said Hawaii would benefit from having a Republican in its congressional delegation.

Lingle said her relationships with Republican leaders would help the state continue to be heard in Washington, no matter which party is in power.

“The majority in the U.S. Senate goes back and forth. Sometimes the Republicans are in the majority, and sometimes the Democrats,” she said. “We need to have a foot in both camps. It’s not in Hawaii’s interest to have a delegation that’s all of one party.”

Lingle was on Maui on Tuesday for the local announcement of her endorsement by the State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers, support she said “means a lot” to her campaign.

Lingle pointed to her support of the Maui Police Department during her two terms as mayor, which included the department’s transition to becoming the first nationally accredited police department in the state.

“We want to make sure our officers always have the resources they need to do a great job,” she said.

Maui police Detective Michael Bates, chairman of SHOPO’s Maui Chapter, said that Lingle had “always advocated for law enforcement and public safety.”

“In the U.S. Senate, I believe she’ll be able to support federal legislation to get them to help and assist us to fight crime,” he said. “Also I believe she’ll be able to help us protect our health benefits and our pension benefits in these hard economic times.”

If elected, Lingle said she would focus on issues like Social Security and Medicare.

“These issues are being faced by Americans whether they’re police officers or not,” she said.

She said her job would be to “protect” benefits for seniors and workers nearing retirement age.

“At the same time, we’re going to have to make changes to the system, for young people,” she said. “If we don’t make these changes, then it’s not going to be there for them when they retire.”

The former governor stressed what she called a “definable track record” of bipartisanship, and said she would work across the aisle if elected to the Senate.

“I’m comfortable doing that because I’ve had to, being a Republican in a state that’s so heavily Democrat,” she said.

In addition to her local record, Lingle pointed to her efforts as governor reaching out to Republicans in Congress to gain their support for the Akaka Bill, which would have provided federal recognition of Native Hawaiians.

“Not everyone in the Republican Party felt the same way, but I was able to get Republicans to actually be co-sponsors,” she said. “If I was elected, I would be able to get support, certainly for the Akaka Bill, which without Republican support I don’t think has a chance to pass.”

She also said she did not expect to have difficulty working with President Barack Obama, even though she campaigned against him in 2008, when she was supporting the Republican ticket of John McCain and Sarah Palin.

“I think the president is like me, and that is, if it’s good for the people, he’s for it, and if it’s good for the people, I’m for it,” she said.

She said she agreed with Obama on issues including energy policies and support for charter schools, but disagreed with him on other issues.

“If he’s going to talk about cutting the military and it’s going to affect Pacific Command, then I’m going to have to take a position against that, because it’s not in Hawaii’s interest,” she said, noting the Pacific region faces security challenges including instability in North Korea and tension between China and Taiwan.

“It doesn’t matter who the president is. To me that’s a separate issue,” she said. “And if a Republican gets elected, if they’re doing something that’s not in Hawaii’s interest, then I’m not going to be able to support them on that.”

Looking at some of her administration’s more controversial actions, which have re-emerged as statewide issues in the past weeks, Lingle said she didn’t have second thoughts about her decision to veto a civil unions bill in the final months of her governorship.

A subsequent bill allowing civil unions, which was passed by the Legislature in 2011 and signed by Democratic Gov. Neil Abercrombie, took effect Jan. 1.

Lingle said she had told legislators during her administration that she would support civil unions as “something less than marriage,” but that when the bill granted couples the same rights as marriage, she judged that it should be sent to voters for a referendum.

She noted that Hawaii voters previously voted “overwhelmingly” in 1998 against amending the state’s constitution to allow same-sex marriage.

“My opinion hasn’t changed,” she said. “I said at the time that I support reciprocal benefits. I certainly respect all people. But I wasn’t willing to be the one person who would make a decision on something that the public had already voted against in such an overwhelming number.”

And as the state Legislature considers a proposal by Democratic Rep. Joe Souki to restart discussions of an interisland ferry system, Lingle said she continues to believe the Hawaii Superferry was “a very important project that should have been allowed to survive.”

She said her support of the Superferry showed her ability to be bipartisan, noting she worked with state House and Senate leaders to draft legislation and hold a special session of the Legislature in an effort to keep the service afloat.

“It was only when the Supreme Court really overstepped its bounds and created a new law that never existed before that really caused the destruction of this opportunity for the people,” she said.

But she said she did not expect to play a role in attempting to restart a ferry system if elected to the U.S. Senate.

“It’s not realistic at this time,” she said. “We have over a $15 trillion debt in this country, and they know the court here has made this decision. I don’t see any government funding available. Obviously, I think it’s a great idea to have a ferry system in the islands, but I think it’s truly a missed opportunity.”

LIHU’E – Joined by Governor Lingle on Kauai today, Bryson Ponce, Kauai police officer and State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers (SHOPO) State Secretary, reinforced today that Kauai’s police officers stand behind their statewide union’s endorsement of former Governor Linda Lingle in her bid for Hawaii’s open U.S. Senate seat.

“We mutually believe in each other. It’s our honor to support Governor Lingle,” said Ponce at the Kauai SHOPO chapter headquarters office today. “Governor Lingle is a person of integrity, who is hard working, and always puts police officers and public safety as a priority on her list,” Ponce added.

“Having the backing and support of ‘Hawaii’s Finest’ has been a true honor for me since SHOPO’s first endorsement of my campaigns in 2002.  As Governor, my top priority for the state was the safety of the public. I could always count on our outstanding uniformed officers, who put their lives on the line every single day, to share the same commitment to keeping all the people of Hawaii safe.  The SHOPO members and their families have always been, and will continue to be, part of my extended ‘ohana. I am extremely humbled by today’s endorsement, and will always honor the faith SHOPO has shown in me by putting Hawaii’s ‘people first’,” said Governor Linda Lingle.

SHOPO previously endorsed Governor Lingle in her gubernatorial campaign in 2002 and her re-election campaign in 2006.

To personally express her appreciation to the union members for their support, Governor Lingle visited police officers at the SHOPO chapter office in Lihue today after visiting Maui’s officers Tuesday and Hawaii Island officers on Wednesday.
SHOPO was formed in 1971 and is an independent, nonaffiliated union for police officers, and is the only law enforcement union in the state.

Additional information on the Linda Lingle Senate campaign is available at www.lingle2012.com. Follow the campaign updates on Facebook at www.facebook.com/lingle2012.com, Twitter at @lingle2012, and on YouTube at www.YouTube.com/Lingle2012.

The campaign recently launched its customized Lingle 2012 app for iPhones and Android devices.  To download, use the browser on a mobile device to access the campaign’s mobile website at www.lingle2012.com/mobile-app.  Click on the mobile app icon and the app will automatically download and install on the mobile device. The mobile app can also be downloaded directly from the Apple App Store or Android Market by searching for ‘Lingle 2012′.

HILO – Joined by Governor Lingle today on the Big Island today, Lieutenant Reed Mahuna of the Hawaii Chapter of the State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers (SHOPO), reinforced today that Hawaii Island’s police officers’ stand behind their statewide union’s endorsement of former Governor Linda Lingle in her bid for Hawaii’s open U.S. Senate seat.

“I echo our President Tenari Ma‘afala’s comments from earlier this week that this is not just an endorsement, this is a personal commitment from our organization to see that Linda Lingle is elected as our next U.S. Senator,” said Lt. Reed Mahuna, Hawaii Chapter, SHOPO. “We have no greater friend that Linda Lingle, who has delivered action and results as related to public safety. Not just rhetoric. In turn, she will have no greater ally in her campaign than the men and women of SHOPO,” Mahuna added.

“Having the backing and support of ‘Hawaii’s Finest’ has been a true honor for me since SHOPO’s first endorsement of my campaigns in 2002.  As Governor, my top priority for the state was the safety of the public. I could always count on our outstanding uniformed officers, who put their lives on the line every single day, to share the same commitment to keeping all the people of Hawaii safe.  The SHOPO members and their families have always been, and will continue to be, part of my extended ‘ohana. I am extremely humbled by today’s endorsement, and will always honor the faith SHOPO has shown in me by putting Hawaii’s ‘people first’,” said Governor Linda Lingle.

SHOPO previously endorsed Governor Lingle in her gubernatorial campaign in 2002 and her re-election campaign in 2006.

To personally express her appreciation to the union members for their support, Governor Lingle is visiting police officers at the SHOPO chapter office in Hilo today after visiting Maui’s officers Tuesday and she will travel to Kauai on Friday.

SHOPO was formed in 1971 and is an independent, non-affiliated union for police officers, and is the only law enforcement union in the state.

Additional information on the Linda Lingle Senate campaign is available at www.lingle2012.com. Follow the campaign updates on Facebook at www.facebook.com/lingle2012.com, Twitter at @lingle2012, and on YouTube at www.YouTube.com/Lingle2012.

The campaign recently launched its customized Lingle 2012 app for iPhones and Android devices.  To download, use the browser on a mobile device to access the campaign’s mobile website at www.lingle2012.com/mobile-app.  Click on the mobile app icon and the app will automatically download and install on the mobile device.  The mobile app can also be downloaded directly from the Apple App Store or Android Market by searching for ‘Lingle 2012′.

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Today, former governor Lingle visited the State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers (SHOPO) Maui Chapter headquarters in Wailuku to accept their endorsement of her bid for Hawaii’s open US Senate seat.

Joined by the Board of Directors of the State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers (SHOPO), President Tenari Ma’afala announced yesterday that Hawaii’s police officers’ union is endorsing former governor Linda Lingle in her bid for Hawaii’s open US Senate seat.

“Governor [sic] Lingle has always had our police officers in her heart, and she advocated for us in every leadership position she has held – from Maui’s mayor to Hawaii’s governor. We know she will represent Hawaii’s police officers and our brethren across the country well when we elect her to serve in Washington, DC,” said SHOPO President, Tenari Ma’afala, in a written statement.

“This is not just an endorsement. It is a full-on commitment from us to play a major role in Gov. Lingle’s campaign for the next 10 months,” Ma’afala added.

“Having the backing and support of ‘Hawaii’s Finest’ has been a true honor for me since SHOPO’s first endorsement of my campaigns in 2002. I am extremely humbled by today’s endorsement, and will always honor the faith SHOPO has shown in me by putting Hawaii’s people first,” said Lingle.

SHOPO previously endorsed Lingle in her gubernatorial campaign in 2002 and her re-election campaign in 2006.

To personally express her appreciation to the union members for their support, Lingle will travel throughout the state this week to visit with police officers at all of the SHOPO chapters including Maui, Hawaii Island and Kauai.

MAUI CHAPTER OF THE STATE OF HAWAII ORGANIZATION OF POLICE OFFICERS (SHOPO) ENDORSES LINDA LINGLE FOR U.S. SENATE

WAILUKU – Joined by Governor Lingle today on Maui, Detective Michael Bates of the Maui Chapter of the State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers (SHOPO), reinforced today that Maui’s police officers’ stand behind their statewide union’s endorsement of former Governor Linda Lingle in her bid for Hawaii’s open U.S. Senate seat.

“Governor Lingle has been a friend to the police officers of Maui County since her days as our Mayor. She continued this support statewide as Governor and we will stand behind her as she seeks to represent us in the U.S. Senate,” said Detective Michael Bates, Maui Chapter, SHOPO. “Maui’s officers are here to support our Governor and our future Senator.”

“Having the backing and support of ‘Hawaii’s Finest’ – especially from my home county of Maui – has been a true honor for me since SHOPO’s first endorsement of my campaigns in 2002.  As Governor, my top priority for the state was the safety of the public. I could always count on our outstanding uniformed officers, who put their lives on the line every single day, to share the same commitment to keeping all the people of Hawaii safe.  The SHOPO members and their families have always been, and will continue to be, part of my extended ‘ohana. I am extremely humbled by today’s endorsement, and will always honor the faith SHOPO has shown in me by putting Hawaii’s ‘people first’,” said Governor Linda Lingle.

SHOPO previously endorsed Governor Lingle in her gubernatorial campaign in 2002 and her re-election campaign in 2006.

To personally express her appreciation to the union members for their support, Governor Lingle is visiting police officers at the SHOPO chapter office on Maui today and will travel to the Big Island and Kauai later this week.

SHOPO was formed in 1971 and is an independent, non-affiliated union for police officers, and is the only law enforcement union in the state.

Additional information on the Linda Lingle Senate campaign is available at www.lingle2012.com. Follow the campaign updates on Facebook at www.facebook.com/lingle2012.com, Twitter at @lingle2012, and on YouTube at www.YouTube.com/Lingle2012.

The campaign recently launched its customized Lingle 2012 app for iPhones and Android devices.  To download, use the browser on a mobile device to access the campaign’s mobile website at www.lingle2012.com/mobile-app.  Click on the mobile app icon and the app will automatically download and install on the mobile device.  The mobile app can also be downloaded directly from the Apple App Store or Android Market by searching for ‘Lingle 2012′.

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SHOPO President Tenari Ma’afala announced at a press conference at their Kalihi headquarters that Hawaii’s police officers’ union is endorsing former Governor Republican Linda Lingle in her bid for Hawaii’s open U.S. Senate seat.

“Governor Lingle has always had our police officers in her heart, and she advocated for us in every leadership position she has held – from Maui’s Mayor to Hawaii’s Governor. We know she will represent Hawaii’s police officers and our brethren across the country well when we elect her to serve in Washington, D.C.,” said SHOPO President, Tenari Ma’afala. “This is not just an endorsement. It is a full-on commitment from us to play a major role in Gov. Lingle’s campaign for the next 10 months,” Ma’afala added.

SHOPO had previously endorsed Lingle for her gubernatorial campaigns.

The 3,000-member State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers today placed their support behind Republican Linda Lingle in her bid for the U.S. Senate.

SHOPO President Tenari Maafala said Lingle was the best candidate to fight for law enforcement issues “in the White House.” He said Democrats Ed Case and Mazie Hirono did not seek SHOPO’s endorsement.

Lingle said she would fight for Social Security and Medicare rights for people current receiving those entitlements but warned that such entitlements were not fully sustainable in the long run.

By Gina Mangieri

Hawaii’s police union has endorsed republican Linda Lingle in the race for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Dan Akaka.

The union said it’s backing the republican candidate because of her track record on backing their sector and because they say she’s also the only one who came asking.

The 3,000 member union said that as mayor and then as governor, Linda Lingle put public safety first and foremost. Other candidates say they didn’t get an equal chance at the nod.

“We’re not about a particular party card-carrying person. It’s the person’s heart and the person’s vision,” said Tenari Maafala of SHOPO.

“When I talked with some of the officers on the different islands, they’re excited to go with me as I go door to door, they’re excited to come to events, so it’s a very important endorsement,” said Lingle.

“I think that the process of an endorsement interview of all candidates is incredibly helpful to the union,” said Ed Case, democratic candidate for U.S. Senate.  ”When they don’t do that, that’s when members start asking, well what’s going on here?” said Case.

Case said he’d sent a letter last fall to all major unions asking for their consideration and seeking a meeting.

Democrat Mazie Hirono said her record on fighting crime is strong, citing more than 200 officers added in her district when she supported a federal program.

Case is taking on Hirono for the general election spot on the democratic ticket.

Also on Monday, UPW said it’s backing former mayor Mufi Hannemann in his run for congress. They have about 13,000 members statewide.

For immediate release: January 9, 2010

STATE OF HAWAII ORGANIZATION OF POLICE OFFICERS (SHOPO) ENDORSES LINDA LINGLE FOR U.S. SENATE

HONOLULU – Joined by the Board of Directors of the State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers (SHOPO), President Tenari Ma’afala announced today that Hawaii’s police officers’ union is endorsing former Governor Linda Lingle in her bid for Hawaii’s open U.S. Senate seat.

“Governor Lingle has always had our police officers in her heart, and she advocated for us in every leadership position she has held – from Maui’s Mayor to Hawaii’s Governor. We know she will represent Hawaii’s police officers and our brethren across the country well when we elect her to serve in Washington, D.C.,” said SHOPO President, Tenari Ma’afala. “This is not just an endorsement. It is a full-on commitment from us to play a major role in Gov. Lingle’s campaign for the next 10 months,” Ma’afala added.

“Having the backing and support of ‘Hawaii’s Finest’ has been a true honor for me since SHOPO’s first endorsement of my campaigns in 2002. As Governor, my top priority for the state was the safety of the public. I could always count on our outstanding uniformed officers, who put their lives on the line every single day, to share the same commitment to keeping all the people of Hawaii safe. The SHOPO members and their families have always been, and will continue to be, part of my extended ‘ohana. I am extremely humbled by today’s endorsement, and will always honor the faith SHOPO has shown in me by putting Hawaii’s ‘people first,’” said Governor Linda Lingle.

SHOPO previously endorsed Governor Lingle in her gubernatorial campaign in 2002 and her re-election campaign in 2006.

To personally express her appreciation to the union members for their support, Governor Lingle will travel throughout the state this week to visit with police officers at all of the SHOPO chapters including Maui, Hawaii Island and Kauai.

SHOPO was formed in 1971 and is an independent, non-affiliated union for police officers, and is the only law enforcement union in the state.

Additional information on the Linda Lingle Senate campaign is available at www.lingle2012.com. Follow the campaign updates on Facebook at www.facebook.com/lingle2012.com, Twitter at @lingle2012, and on YouTube at www.YouTube.com/Lingle2012.

The campaign recently launched its customized Lingle 2012 app for iPhones and Android devices. To download, use the browser on a mobile device to access the campaign’s mobile website at www.lingle2012.com/mobile-app. Click on the mobile app icon and the app will automatically download and install on the mobile device. The mobile app can also be downloaded directly from the Apple App Store or Android Market by searching for ‘Lingle 2012′.

# # # #

www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z6bdOS68jCM

For immediate release: January 9, 2010

STATE OF HAWAII ORGANIZATION OF POLICE OFFICERS (SHOPO) ENDORSES LINDA LINGLE FOR U.S. SENATE

HONOLULU -- Joined by the Board of Directors of the State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers (SHOPO), President Tenari Ma’afala announced today that Hawaii’s police officers’ union is endorsing former Governor Linda Lingle in her bid for Hawaii’s open U.S. Senate seat.

“Governor Lingle has always had our police officers in her heart, and she advocated for us in every leadership position she has held -- from Maui’s Mayor to Hawaii’s Governor.  We know she will represent Hawaii’s police officers and our brethren across the country well when we elect her to serve in Washington, D.C.,” said SHOPO President, Tenari Ma’afala. “This is not just an endorsement. It is a full-on commitment from us to play a major role in Gov. Lingle’s campaign for the next 10 months,” Ma’afala added.

“Having the backing and support of ‘Hawaii’s Finest’ has been a true honor for me since SHOPO’s first endorsement of my campaigns in 2002.  As Governor, my top priority for the state was the safety of the public. I could always count on our outstanding uniformed officers, who put their lives on the line every single day, to share the same commitment to keeping all the people of Hawaii safe.  The SHOPO members and their families have always been, and will continue to be, part of my extended ‘ohana. I am extremely humbled by today’s endorsement, and will always honor the faith SHOPO has shown in me by putting Hawaii’s ‘people first,’” said Governor Linda Lingle.

SHOPO previously endorsed Governor Lingle in her gubernatorial campaign in 2002 and her re-election campaign in 2006.

To personally express her appreciation to the union members for their support, Governor Lingle will travel throughout the state this week to visit with police officers at all of the SHOPO chapters including Maui, Hawaii Island and Kauai.

SHOPO was formed in 1971 and is an independent, non-affiliated union for police officers, and is the only law enforcement union in the state.

Additional information on the Linda Lingle Senate campaign is available at www.lingle2012.com. Follow the campaign updates on Facebook at www.facebook.com/lingle2012.com, Twitter at @lingle2012, and on YouTube at www.YouTube.com/Lingle2012.

The campaign recently launched its customized Lingle 2012 app for iPhones and Android devices.  To download, use the browser on a mobile device to access the campaign’s mobile website at www.lingle2012.com/mobile-app.  Click on the mobile app icon and the app will automatically download and install on the mobile device.  The mobile app can also be downloaded directly from the Apple App Store or Android Market by searching for ‘Lingle 2012′.

# # # #

Our week has truly been a  great one so far, and I have plenty to share with you about what’s gone on and will be going on in the next few days during Gov. Lingle’s campaign for U.S. Senate!

Monday, we unloaded with a HUGE announcement, which you were sure to catch if you were plugged in to the Social Media side of our campaign (Facebook, Twitter or the new Mobile App). The State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers formally endorsed Linda Lingle for Senate, and vowed to do everything they could to ensure an election victory for her in November. If you aren’t already, be SURE to use social media to stay connected to our campaign up to the minute.

And if you haven’t yet, go download the campaign’s mobile app at http://www.Lingle2012.com/mobile-app and you’ll find out when news breaks! Trust me, you won’t want to miss this.

It’s been a full week, and full steam ahead already. Tuesday morning, Governor was the featured guest on a conference call on The Wolf Chat, a regularly recurring program maintained by a group called The Wolf Pack. They are a global organization, free to join, and they equip women businesses leaders with information they need to succeed in the modern marketplace. Governor talked about some of her personal history, the path her life has taken to get to where she is today, and shared insights about lessons she has learned along the way. She also explained a bit about her ideas for improving Hawaii and the nation’s economy, and always putting “people first.” You can listen to the entire discussion online at http://thewolfpackden.ning.com/.

Tuesday afternoon marked the start of another flurry of interisland visits, as Governor Lingle took her message of small business support, fiscal discipline, and stimulating job growth to Maui Tuesday, the Big Island Wednesday and Thursday, and Kauai on Friday.

The mobile app we launched for the campaign is an excellent, powerful tool, and I really recommend it and hope you will share it with your friends. With a simple touch of the screen on your smartphone you’ll be able to see that day’s event schedule, breaking news, and you can share it easily with your friends on Facebook or to anyone via e-mail. Direct your mobile phone’s browser to http://www.lingle2012.com/mobile-app to download it, or do a search for “Lingle” on either the Android Market or iPhone App Store to install.

Gov. Lingle offers voters a positive choice in this election to ensure Hawaii’s people are always put first.  We need a Senator who will pursue policies that help small businesses and create jobs to boost our economy. And the best way we can achieve that goal is by making as many people as possible aware of Linda Lingle’s leadership and vision. And now we have the tools to make that happen!

Finally, as the campaign kicks into high gear, I will be looking forward to having “coffee” with you on a weekly basis.

Enjoy your week, and until next time,

Major General Robert Lee
U.S. Army (Ret.)
Campaign Manager, Linda Lingle Senate Committee

LINDA LINGLE SENATE CAMPAIGN LAUNCHES MOBILE APP TO STAY CONNECTED, ENHANCE COMMUNICATIONS WITH THE PUBLIC

HONOLULU – Former Governor Linda Lingle today announced the availability of a free mobile app for voters to stay connected and informed about the latest news surrounding her campaign for the U.S. Senate.

“More people than ever are getting their information online, often directly to their personal mobile devices, and I want to make sure Hawai’i voters have every opportunity to stay informed about this very important election,” Governor Lingle said. “Also, the mobile app is another tool to help me stay connected with the people of Hawai’i, while providing them with timely information that is relevant to their families and businesses.”

The free app is currently available for iPhones and Android-based systems, features campaign news updates, Morning Coffee with the General blog, campaign videos, public speaking event listings and photos as they occur. Other app features include a link to register as a volunteer with the campaign and also to contribute to the Linda Lingle Senate Campaign. Once the app is installed, users will be able to view the multimedia content.

“As someone who did not grow up with the electronic devices that are available on the market today, I see the tremendous potential for getting more information into more people’s hands so they can make the best decision possible,” said Maj. Gen. (ret.) Bob Lee, former State Adjutant General and campaign manager for the Linda Lingle Senate Committee.

“By embracing the latest information technology, Governor Lingle is continuing her commitment to enhance communications with the public and engage voters on every island on the key issues she feels are important to address” said Lenny Klompus, the campaign’s Communications Director.

To install the Lingle 2012 App, use the browser on a mobile device to access the campaign’s website app page at  www.lingle2012.com/mobile-app.   Click on the appropriate mobile app icon and the app will automatically download and install on the mobile device.   The mobile app can also be downloaded directly from the Apple App Store or Android Market by searching for “Lingle.”

Additional information on the Linda Lingle Senate Campaign is available at  www.lingle2012.com. Follow the campaign updates on Facebook at  www.facebook.com/lingle2012.com, Twitter at @lingle2012, and on YouTube at  www.YouTube.com/Lingle2012.

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**Event Schedule Subject to Change, please check back for updates**

**Event Schedule Subject to Change, please check back for updates**

I hope your weekend is off to a terrific start. The good news continues to erupt from our campaign, and I’m so excited to share with you. Our campaign is the first Hawaii candidate for federal office to launch a mobile app, and it’s available to iPhone and Android users right now.

Use the browser on your mobile device to access the campaign’s web app page at www.lingle2012.com/mobile-app.  Click on the mobile app icon appropriate for your device and the app will automatically download and install. You can also download it directly from the Apple App Store or Android Market by searching for “Lingle.”

I know Governor Lingle is extremely proud of her team for launching this app as we share her winning message with as many voters as possible. Now, with this app, you can track and plan for Gov. Lingle’s speaking events, check out recent pictures or videos, read about the latest breaking news on the campaign, register to volunteer or even donate from your phone.

This just another example of Linda Lingle’s commitment to keeping the issues that matter to Hawaii’s people front and center during this campaign.

I hope your weekend is productive, and be sure to download that app right now. You can be a big help by providing a rating and brief review once you do.

Major General Robert Lee
U.S. Army (Ret.)
Campaign Manager, Linda Lingle Senate Committee