Why vote?
It is easy to wonder why systems are hard to change. One reason is that is just easy to let things stay the same.
Politics in Hawaii leans largely to the Democratic Party. In the 2018 primary election, more than 38,000 out of 43,817 voted for a Democrat.
Having voted for Democrat and Republican candidates in the past, I know how difficult it can be to make an informed choice. The political landscape nationwide is more about popularity than policy. By policy, I mean what is best for the country.
The system in Hawaii is like a plane on autopilot — the direction has been plotted in and the residents are along for the ride. It is a comfortable ride because it requires the passengers let someone else drive not knowing that not even the pilot is in control.
I know this because more than 69,000 registered voters stayed home and did not vote. They are the constituency that decided to go along for the ride, to let someone else decide what is best.
In America, the vote is the way to express your opinion about the country’s direction and destination. You are the visible marker that allows leaders to validate the course. Your vote gives leaders expanded visibility to see things that are in the blind spots.
It is hard to go a week in America without witnessing a protest about something. Rallies, protests and civil disruptions might get you noticed, but only your vote can ensure change.
If you think we are on course, let your vote reflect it. If you don’t like what you see, put down the picket sign, stop the Twitter feed, the Facebook and Instagram posts. Educate yourself, and go vote.
Voting is more than a fundamental right for all Americans. It is a responsibility.
Kevin Brown
Naalehu
Raises vs. service
Have you tried to get a driver’s license recently?!
At 8:03 a.m., I arrived to find at least 25 people already in line; the office opens at 8 a.m.
I wanted to schedule a road test for a friend and tried all week to call 961-2222 to speak with someone about it. It was never answered, and the message did not give information about how to schedule.
It is obvious that the department is severely understaffed. And the county department heads just got a $40K raise? Wouldn’t that cover a new employee for the licensing department?
They need at least several positions, and the bosses need raises? While the public gets to waste their time waiting in line to even speak to someone? This is ridiculous. Do something, Mayor Kim!
Marnie Honeycutt
Hilo