“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” ~United States Declaration of Independence
From http://www.hrtl.org/vote.htm
In these challenging times, the array of complex issues needing the attention of our legislators can seem staggering. Some feel that the emphasis should be placed on economic problems, the environment, our national defense, or on social programs. Undeniably, these are all important subjects that must be addressed.
However, among the various concerns facing us today, the most important one is the right to life. Without this most fundamental and “unalienable” right, we need not worry about any other issues. Accordingly, we must identify who among the candidates running for office will stand firm in defense of this right, for all people at all times, regardless of the circumstances.
Hawaii Right to Life PAC has researched the candidates (and when applicable, ballot questions) and provides the following information to assist you, the voter, in choosing life with your vote. By each of us taking a principled stand with our vote, we can make a real difference to save countless lives and improve Hawai‘i Nei for generations to come.
No Endorsement
In some contests, Hawaii Right to Life PAC is unable to endorse any of the candidates due to their (presumably misguided) lack of respect for the sanctity of human life. For these races, we will indicate no endorsement.
Candidate Recommendations
There may be contests in which one or more candidates stand apart from the others due to a partial commitment to pro-life values, such as banning the use of taxpayer funding for abortion or opposition to assisted suicide, while their opponent(s) do not share these commitments. For those races in which there is at least one candidate whose beliefs and, if applicable, voting record, demonstrates some effort to defend innocent human life, Hawaii Right to Life PAC will recommend with reservations. Voters are then free to decide whether they wish to support a candidate who represents some, but not all, of the same positions as Hawaii Right to Life on the array life issues.
Candidate Endorsements
Candidates seeking an endorsement from Hawaii Right to Life must have signed a pledge (below) indicating their commitment to ensuring that all people enjoy their inalienable right to life. In addition, incumbent candidates must have a voting record that supports this.
Candidate Right to Life Pledge
I affirm that if elected to public office in the State of Hawai'i I will work to protect the right to life for all people. The sanctity of life must be upheld to include the entire duration of a person’s life, from conception to natural death.
I believe that all people have an inalienable right to life. Moreover, I hold that our country was founded upon such principles that include the right to pursue life, liberty, and happiness, and the role of government is to ensure these rights are not infringed.
I consider it my duty to support laws that protect innocent human life and oppose laws which hasten the death of innocent human persons, including but not limited to abortion, assisted suicide, embryonic stem cell research, and medical futility.
2010 Hawaii Right to Life PAC Endorsements
Endorsements and recommendations are made solely by Hawaii Right to Life PAC and are not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee.
Notes:
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Candidate agrees with right to life pledge in its entirety EXCEPT for abortion. On the issue of abortion, candidate believes that exceptions should be made, allowing abortion in cases of rape, incest, and life of the mother.
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Candidate verbally affirms his agreement with candidate right to life statement in its entirety but refuses to sign the pledge form.