Charles Djou

Representative District2012 Candidate for U.S. Representative DistrictRepresentative District 1

CHARLES DJOU
Republican

1. Do you believe that the United States government should formally acknowledge the special legal and political status of Native Hawaiians, as it has done for Native American and Alaska Native Groups? If so, what would you do to secure such ackowledgment for Native Hawaiians? If not, why not?

I support Native Hawaiian recognition as set forth in the Akaka bill. Introduced 12 years ago, the Akaka bill has lacked Republican support in Congress. If fortunate enough to be elected, I would ensure that mainland Republicans understand the importance of this legislation. With Republicans expected to retain control of the U.S. House, Hawai‘i needs a representative who can speak to the majority in Congress.
After all, it was Congresswoman Pat Saiki – a Republican – who convinced President George H.W. Bush – a Republican – to end the bombing of Kaho‘olawe. President Bush signed the Executive Order in 1990, 70 years after bombing first began in 1920.

2. What are some examples of actions that you have personally taken to better the conditions of Native Hawaiians?

While in Congress, I actively worked with my colleagues to reauthorize the Hawaiian Homeownership Opportunity Act, H.R. 709, to provide housing assistance for Native Hawaiians. This legislation, which has been waiting for reauthorization since 2005, will expand opportunities for Native Hawaiians, particularly those of limited means, to access affordable housing.

3. How would you address the challenges of the Native Hawaiian Health Care Act and the Native Hawaiian Education Act?

Hawai‘i needs bipartisan representation in Congress. We need representatives who will vigorously advocate for Hawai‘i and will always put Hawai‘i’s interests first. If elected, I will never forget that I work for the people of Hawai‘i.

The opinions expressed here are those of the candidate and do not represent the views of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.

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