Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu
Written Remarks into the House Journal
March 10, 2009; 26th Day
3rd Reading, H.B. 128, H.D. 1, Relating to Elections
I rise in support of House Bill 128, House Draft 1, Relating to Elections. In the 2008 primary election, the last minute decisions by candidates to run for offices caused the disqualification of one candidate. The City & County of Honolulu Clerk ruled that the candidate did not formally withdraw from his state House race before filing for the City Council seat. This bill will make the process better for individuals intending to run for elected office by requiring the state Office of Elections to create and make available a standard withdrawal and declaration of candidacy form and make nomination papers available only until the Friday preceding the filing deadline. Thank you.
JON RIKI KARAMATSU 