In the most consequential election in modern history, Hawaii’s voter turnout rate in 2024 was the lowest in the country. For years, Hawaii’s voter turnout ratio has been one of the lowest, if not the lowest, in the entire country.
The ability to vote in a free and fair election is the linchpin of a democracy. So why are so many people choosing not to vote? It’s because Hawaii isn’t a democracy; it’s a one-party state totally run by the Democrats. They control every level of government as well as the private sector.
People feel powerless to change anything. It’s easier to go along rather than rocking the boat. People may not be voting with their ballots, but they are voting with their feet. Thousands are leaving every year taking their tax dollars with them. Those remaining will have to pick up the bill.
Bert Oshiro
Hawaii Kai
COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS
In the spirit of this season, take a moment to count your blessings. Recent times might’ve been tough — politically, economically or otherwise — but surely there are positives.
Here’s your chance to reflect on what you appreciate. Today through Dec. 9, we’ll be accepting “Count Your Blessings” letters (150 words max) or essays (500-600 words). A collection of these will run in mid-December.
Email to letters@staradvertiser.com; or send to 500 Ala Moana Blvd., Bldg. 2, room 200, Honolulu 96813, c/o Letters.
EXPRESS YOURSELF
The Honolulu Star-Advertiser welcomes all opinions. Want your voice to be heard? Submit a letter to the editor.
>> Write us: We welcome letters up to 150 words, and guest columns of 500-600 words. We reserve the right to edit for clarity and length. Include your name, address and daytime phone number.
>> Mail: Letters to the Editor, Honolulu Star-Advertiser 7 Waterfront Plaza, 500 Ala Moana, Suite #7-500 Honolulu, HI 96813
>> Contact: 529-4831 (phone), letters@staradvertiser.com, staradvertiser.com/editorial/submit-letter
