Transcript of Colleen’s Live Twitter Q&A

October 13, 2010

Please find a transcript of Colleen’s first live Twitter Q&A on Wednesday, October 13, 2010, at 11:00 a.m.  The 30-minute session allowed Colleen an opportunity to directly tweet with voters about important issues.

ColleenHanabusa
Mahalo for your questions. We will try to answer at least one per person.

ColleenHanabusa
We will retweet your questions followed by a response from Colleen. -TeamCH

maluhiamdc
#Q4CH Djou’s comment re: DADT says his vote was not for equality but rather to close a escapist loophole, where do you stand on #DADT?

ColleenHanabusa
I believe in the repeal of DADT because it’s time has come and gone. I also believe that it is an equality issue.

tmiyagi
#Q4CH Why do we need the #AkakaBill, @colleenhanabusa? What’s in it for me?

ColleenHanabusa
The native Hawaiians are the host culture for our State. I believe they represent the foundation as to who we are.

islandpolitics
Since the war costs so much, why are we still in #Afghanistan? #Q4CH

ColleenHanabusa
It is expected that we will begin the withdrawal in 2011. We are in Afghanistan now because of the hope for stability for the middle east.

allperspectives
#Q4CH How will you address the current homeless issues in HI? What impact will your new role play w/ making HI the first sustainable state?

ColleenHanabusa
We must understand that homelessness is not a simple cause or issue. We have to ensure jobs are there. I will continue work on Sustain. 2050

maluhiamdc
#Q4CH Why are there so few debates with Djou? Has he done anything “good” for HI in congress in his short time there?

ColleenHanabusa
Djou has canceled two debates or forums. Watch us on PBS tomorrow night and KITV on Friday. We will discuss his record at these debates.

SaoMagnifico
Senator, what action will you take in Congress on energy policy? #Q4CH

ColleenHanabusa
I support efforts for a green economy. I believe the move towards truly a non fossil fuel dependent country will address many problems.

Follower @maluhiamdc seeks clarification on previous question regarding #DADT

maluhiamdc
@ColleenHanabusa Does that mean there was ever a “time” for it? A “time” where inequality was/is excusable?

ColleenHanabusa
@maluhiamdc No I do not believe there was ever a time.

jonnutter
@ColleenHanabusa How can Obama be a more affective leader? #Q4CH

ColleenHanabusa
Obama is a great communicator. He needs to speak to us as he did in the Presidential campaign. People need to hear him.

asilbs2
@ColleenHanabusa #Q4CH What is your view on comprehensive immigration reform? Mothers, fathers, children are effected by this everyday.

ColleenHanabusa
I support comprehensive immigration reform. I thought Kennedy McCain was a good start. I support the Dream Act as well.

User @LisaSmarty asks for a clarification to her answer about energy policy.

LisaSmarty
@ColleenHanabusa By supporting green projects/initiatives? Voting in favor of tax credits/grants for clean energy?

ColleenHanabusa
@LisaSmarty The economy gives us the unique opportunity to direct infrastructure and research and development to this area.

csilt
@colleenhanabusa What will be your three key objectives during your time in the Senate? #Q4CH

ColleenHanabusa
You mean House. They are job creation, education, alternative energy and Akaka Bill.

tmiyagi
Do you like Matsumoto or Aoki shave ice better? #Q4CH

ColleenHanabusa
Not fair question. Both good but I have always gone to Matsumoto. Favorite flavor is plain strawberry.

[RETWEETED] RT @jznwine
If the Akaka bill doesn’t pass, what wud u suggest as other key pieces of legislation to protect N. Hawn rts? #Q4CH

ColleenHanabusa
There needs to at least a recognition of N. Haw. as an indigenous people with inherent rights. programs and funding need protection.

ColleenHanabusa
We’re on the last question. -TeamCH

torimoto
@ColleenHanabusa #Q4CH A less standard question: who do you look to for advice and why?

ColleenHanabusa
I don’t believe I look to one person. I seek advice from the person I believe best understands the concern or issue that I am facing.

ColleenHanabusa
Thank you everyone for your support and questions. Any typos are mine and please continue to tweet me.

ColleenHanabusa
Mahalo to everyone that participated in our first twitterview! We apologize if we weren’t able to get to your question today. -TeamCH