"I know of no safe depository of the ultimate powers of the society but the people themselves..." — Thomas Jefferson
The Democratic Process
I believe in meaningful citizen participation, combined with informed decision-making. It is my belief that the Democratic process empowers citizens to create a better community and participate in the governance of our society through civic engagement. We citizens seek to develop public policy through a process of:
Information > Deliberation > and Action
As Senator, my staff and I will actively seek and solicit information on all the issues we encounter. The People will be a part of the deliberation process, and I pledge to be fair in every decision to take action whether the decision will affect one member of my constituency, or the whole of Hawaii.
Values that Nurture the Power of Intention and Purpose
While I might not always make a decision that everyone will agree with, being a public servant means that I am forever cognizant of working towards the greater good. I am grounded in these basic human values that I use in all my decision making:
- Pono — Fair, Just, Uprightness
- Kuleana — Responsibility, Concern, Privilege
- Onipa’a — Determined, Steadfast, Resolute
- Makoa — Courageous, Confident (Cf. koa, brave. ho’omakoa To act bravely)
- Ho’omau — Persevere, Dedication, Endurance, Resilience, Discipline
- Ha’aha’a — Humility, Respect, Gratitude
- Kaulike — Balance, Equity, Justice, Temperance
- Aloha — Love, Compassion, Inner Bliss, Peace of mind.
Eight Principles of Public Life
