CRAIG T. KOJIMA / 2008
A supporter for the constitutional convention holds up his triple sign on the Pali Highway in 2008. In the general election on Nov. 6, voters will be asked whether they want another ConCon.
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So once more powerful unions, four ex-governors and other members of the oligarchy urge a “no” vote on a constitutional convention because it may “weaken” what we already have.
What it may weaken, of course, is their hold on power. It is much more likely to strengthen participation by the people through such overdue remedies available to most Americans, such as initiative and referendum. No wonder we have the lowest voter turnout in the U.S. — the people have had no voice and no power for decades.
Lord Acton famously wrote: “Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” And one wag shot back: “Power corrupts and absolute power is absolutely delightful.”
After 40 years, can Hawaii honestly say there’s no room for improvement in our governance? I intend to vote an emphatic yes to a ConCon and hope a majority will also.
Mark Dillen Stitham
Kailua
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