Abercrombie backs out of 3 previously committed debates with AARP

A disservice to the senior community across Hawaii

News Release from Ige Campaign, July 14, 2014

Honolulu, HI  — State Senator David Ige today expressed disappointment that Governor Abercrombie has backed out of his previously committed appearances at 3 out of 4 debates sponsored by AARP on Oahu, Maui and Hawaii Island.

"Citizens are losing important opportunities to compare the top two candidates for the state's highest office in face-to-face meetings.  Cancelling so late after arrangements have already been made by AARP and their members is disrespectful to our kupuna," said Senator Ige.

Senator Ige believes in open government and an open political process, listening to all voices and inviting all perspectives and points of view. He has agreed to every invitation to debate or meet the governor this election period. Some of the other forums and debates that Governor Abercrombie declined participation in include, Kokua Council, KITV’s televised debate and Think Tech’s Kaka’ako candidate forum held at the State Capitol.

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AARP Gubernatorial Debates Cancelled

Aloha Advocacy Volunteers:

Governor Neil Abercrombie has withdrawn from three of four AARP sponsored debates with Senator David Ige citing “scheduling difficulties.” The Abercrombie Campaign Team notified AARP that they are withdrawing from debates in Kahului (July 18), Hilo (July 29), and Honolulu (August 2). The Governor will participate in the Kona debate, scheduled for July 29.

AARP Hawaii State Director Barbara Kim Stanton stated that: “AARP Hawaii is deeply disappointed that the governor will not be taking part in three of the four debates that his campaign had agreed to. We hope the governor reconsiders his decision and honors his debate commitments. This is a critical election and the issues require thoughtful deliberation. Campaign ads are a poor substitute for giving voters every opportunity to make informed decisions based on side-by-side comparisons.”

Despite Abercrombie’s withdrawal, the AARP events will proceed as planned as they include a discussion of: the future of Social Security; caregiving & long-term care challenges; and an update on AARP’s state legislative priorities.

All events are open to the public but registration is required. Call toll free at 1-877-926-8300.

* Friday, July 18 – Maui Beach Hotel (9:30 – 11:30 a.m.)

* Monday, July 28 – Hilo Hawaiian Hotel (9:30 – 11:30 a.m.)

* Tuesday, July 29 – King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel (9:30 – 11:30 a.m.)

* Saturday, August 2 – Ward Warehouse, Kakaako Conference Room (9:30 – 11:30 a.m.)

Mahalo.

Steve Tam

Director of Advocacy

AARP Hawaii

SA: Abercrombie out of 3 debates