by Andrew Walden
The results are in. With 100% of the votes counted in the all-mail in special election for Honolulu Council District 1, covering Ewa and Leeward Oahu, Republican Tom Berg has been elected.
Formerly office manager for Democratic Rep Rida Cabanilla, Berg, has since made two unsuccessful attempts to unseat his former boss as a GOP Legislative candidate. His total of 2,326 votes--18.52% of the vote--was enough to put him over the top in the crowded 14-way race to fill the remainder of Todd Apo’s council term.
Berg’s victory boosts Hawaii Republicans stunned by the loss of the Governor’s office and the defeat of Rep Charles Djou. GOP Chairman Jonah Kaauwai issued a statement which reads in part:
As many of you know, Tom has proudly represented the values of our party for years as a volunteer in the community, member of the Ewa Neighborhood Board and as a candidate for the State House. His years of dedication and service to his community have clearly been recognized by voters in this Special Election.
Berg is scheduled to join the newly elected Honolulu Council after a 20-day challenge period expires.
The Council has already discussed committee assignments. Barring any changes, Berg will chair Parks and Human Services and be Vice-chair of Planning.
---30---
Kaauwai: GOP: Berg's years of service to community recognized
Vote totals:
- Tom Berg: 2,326 18.52%
- Jason Espero: 1,950 15.53%
- Mel Kahele: 1,645 13.10%
- Bob McDermott: 1,604 12.77%
- Kioni Dudley: 1,179 9.39%
- Rose Martinez: 1,141 9.09%
- Patty Kahanamoku Teruya: 1,001 7.97%
- Chris Lewis: 392 3.12%
- James K. Manaku: 350 2.79%
- Celeste (Lacaden) Lacuesta: 314 2.50%
- Matthew LoPresti: 286 2.28%
- Victoria (Cissy) Yuen: 224 1.78%
- John P. Roco: 85 .68%
- Gary Kahinano Velleses: 62 .49%
12,609 of 53,753 registered voters returned their mail-in ballots, for a voter turnout figure of 23.5%. This is substantially lower than previous mail in County council special elections.
Special Election Coverage:
|