Government & Politics
ASD’s eye on the people in state and local government making decisions that impact you where you live.
Some days, we report on the little things you see every day, such as road closures or park improvements. Other days, we look at the big plans from Hawai‘i's governor and its mayors. On the issues that matter to you — education, housing, health, homelessness, the cost of living in Hawai‘i, taxes and spending — we keep an eye on what the Hawai‘i state Legislature and county councilmembers are doing.
News
Farm damage nears $70 million following Kona lows
The damage toll from March's storms continues to rise as lawmakers ponder solutions.
Michael BrestovanskyApril 02, 2026
Irrigation funding bill still alive following March floods
A bill providing funds to three state agencies for irrigation systems maintenance may be woefully insufficient as March storm damage mounts.
Michael BrestovanskyApril 01, 2026
What’s next for Otake Camp?
Some residents of Otake Camp are still in the dark. Farmers lost crops. Families lost homes. And everywhere, the mud prevails. They are seeking generators, lumber and funds to restart.
Katie HellandApril 01, 2026
CONGRESS WATCH: Airports and ICE
The ICE budget is still up in the air at Congress, while a slew of new airport bills passed the Senate unchallenged last week.
Michael BrestovanskyMarch 31, 2026
The budget that doesn't grow
Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi did something remarkable early this month in releasing a city budget that came in $133 million under the previous year's budget. ASD columnist Sterling Higa looks at all four county budgets to see which counties are living within the means of their citizens.
Sterling HigaMarch 30, 2026
Community Voices: Where’s your second tax return?
If passed, HB2429 would require you to file not just one tax return but two — and one of them will be open to the public.
Tom YamachikaMarch 30, 2026
Community Voices: The Legislature found $150 million. So where’s our tax relief?
Gov. Josh Green kicked off this year’s session claiming the state’s budget crunch is so bad that it justifies “pausing” the phase-in of the historic income tax cuts he signed into law in 2024. If that’s true, why has the Legislature put forth a budget that blows past his suggested spending by more than $195 million?
Keliʻi AkinaMarch 30, 2026
DLNR to take over Wahiawā Reservoir lands
Board of Land and Natural Resources approves takeover of Wahiawā irrigation parcels, despite debate.
Michael BrestovanskyMarch 28, 2026
Kula Hospital closed indefinitely following storm damage
Maui Health investigating alternate care services for Kula after more than 100 patients had to be relocated.
Michael BrestovanskyMarch 28, 2026
Hawai‘i's celebrity politicians
From Duke Kahanamoku to Herman Wedemeyer to Augie Tulba, there have been local celebrities who have added one more role to resume — politician. ASD columnist Perry Arrasmith walks us through the legends.
Perry ArrasmithMarch 27, 2026
Bill prohibiting corporate political donations nearing the finish line
A bill limiting a corporation's ability to make political donations has passed all but one committee in the state Legislature.
Michael BrestovanskyMarch 27, 2026
Waimānalo Country Farms asks visitors to return this summer
The farm known for its sunflower fields and fresh corn, as well as lemonade and pumpkins, was hard hit by the recent Kona Low storms and lost its spring harvest. But Shawn Kadooka wants people to give to those who lost homes and says they can support the farm later by visiting when it opens this summer.
Katie HellandMarch 27, 2026