It's official: Duke Aiona files papers for Governor

HONOLULU - Surrounded by family and friends, Lt. Governor Duke Aiona today filed his official paperwork with the Office of Elections to serve the people of Hawai`i as Governor. The leading Republican candidate for Governor will face the majority party candidate in an historic election that will help shape the political landscape for the next four years.

"I am running for Governor to ensure balance, integrity and good judgment in state government, while reducing the financial burden on our working families and small businesses, creating jobs and investing in the quality of education," Lt. Governor Aiona said. "Nothing is more important than creating jobs and strengthening the economy, reforming public education, and moving toward a clean energy future."

Duke Aiona's candidacy presents a clear alternative to his political opponents of the majority political party.

He is the only candidate who is calling for a comprehensive, independent audit of the Department of Education.

"Improving our schools isn't just about spending more money," said Aiona. "It's making sure we're getting the most out of every dollar we invest."

He is the only candidate who will keep down the financial burden on our working families and small businesses.

"Instead of making it harder for small businesses to grow, we ought to make it easier," said Aiona. "Government can't create real jobs, but as Governor, I can make it easier for those who do."

Duke Aiona is also the only candidate who will keep intact the Hawai`i Clean Energy Initiative to generate 70 percent or more of our energy through energy efficiency and clean, renewable resources by the year 2030.

"Clean energy isn't an option; it's a necessity," said Aiona. "As Governor, I'll be able to do even more to make Hawai`i the greenest place on Earth in a way that's affordable."

Lt. Governor Duke Aiona has spent the majority of his life serving the public as a city prosecutor, city attorney, state judge, and for nearly eight years as Lieutenant Governor.

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