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
Hamada: Government shutdown showed Hawai‘iʻs vulnerabilities
Groceries cost a "thrifty" family of four nearly $1,000 per month on the Mainland. In Hawai‘i, itʻs more like $1,500.
Rick HamadaNovember 17, 2025
Community Voices: Student loan forgiveness gets complicated
Student loan forgiveness has been tied to working for the government or for certain nonprofits. Under new federal rules, that might depend on whether the state or local government, or nonprofit, engages in "substantial illegal activities" in the eyes of the federal government
Tom YamachikaNovember 17, 2025
State breaks ground on agribusiness hub
Wahiawā facility to help farmers, ag businesses, scale up production.
Michael BrestovanskyNovember 15, 2025
Hawai‘i Job Corps still alive and thriving, despite threat of closure
Nationwide vocational training program still recruiting students even as a lawsuit to determine its fate continues.
Michael BrestovanskyNovember 15, 2025
Community Voices: Hawaiʻi’s rising child poverty is a policy choice — and we can choose better
New data suggests public programs work to meet basic needs for Hawaiʻi’s keiki. Here's how.
Nicole WooNovember 14, 2025
CONGRESS WATCH: Shutdown ended, vet benefits extended
How did Hawai‘i's lawmakers vote this week?
Michael BrestovanskyNovember 14, 2025
Hilo park closed after footbridge collapses
A portion of the bridge connecting Moku‘ola, or Coconut Island, to the Hilo shoreline collapsed Friday and sent a Hawai‘i County employee to the hospital.
Stephanie SalmonsNovember 14, 2025
Free webinar for condo owners set for Saturday
The Real Estate Commission, along with Community Associations Institute Hawai‘i Chapter will host “Condorama XV" on Nov. 15.
Stephanie SalmonsNovember 14, 2025
Green announces committee to advise on Army land negotiations
As U.S. Army contemplates land condemnation to retain training facilities on state land, Green assembles 10-person advisory committee.
Michael BrestovanskyNovember 14, 2025
Honolulu, Roberts Hawai‘i aim to improve access to Hanauma Bay
A new contract between the city and Roberts Hawai‘i packages transportation to and from the popular snorkel spot, entry and an educational video.
Stephanie SalmonsNovember 12, 2025
$300 million bike and pedestrian plan unveiled
Hawai‘i Department of Transportation releases plan of transit network projects to be completed across the state over next decade.
Michael BrestovanskyNovember 12, 2025
Hamada: Weighing emotions versus pragmatism on illegal immigration
Feelings to the contrary aside, nothing about the enforcement of immigration law contradicts America's ideals as a place the welcomes newcomers or that helps people escape oppression.
Rick HamadaNovember 12, 2025