An important thing I have learned in politics, or what I consider people science, is the understanding of human behavior. My heart is open to all kinds of people from all walks of life. I try to put myself into the shoes of others whether they are professionals, in alternative lifestyles, or in the struggle trying to make ends meet.
I have been a strong advocate for women and this stems from hearing the stories of girls who survived rape and violence. A majority of the stories I heard were not reported to the police. I know Governor Lingle disagrees with me in appropriating state funds for certain women's programs, but I am just speaking from my heart. In 1997, a lady who claimed to have a psychic gift told me to never forget what drove me into politics. That helpless feeling of not being able to do as much as I wanted for the girls who entrusted their stories of struggle to me was one of the things that got me determined to enter politics. Many of these girls were afraid or ashamed to go public. As a politician, I am as public as it gets, and I will do all I can to speak on behalf of those who feel alone.
JON RIKI KARAMATSU 