The Honolulu Advertiser Endorsement
October 4, 2006

Newcomer Har strong challenger in District 40

In a state where power is often aligned with incumbency, whether it be Democrat or Republican, it's sometimes hard to find formidable newcomers who are willing to throw their hat in the race.

A noteworthy exception, however, is in District 40 (Makakilo, Kapolei and Royal Kunia), perhaps one of the most interesting races in the general election. Here, Democratic newcomer and first-time office seeker Sharon Har seems uniquely qualified to represent her district.

Har deserves our endorsement over Republican incumbent Mark Moses.

As a lawyer who specializes in real estate development, Har understands what's at stake for her community and is primed to be an effective advocate for the infrastructure improvements necessary in the continuing growth of the "Second City."

The district has changed from a place Moses said once was "just cane fields with no schools planned." The new-generation residents are under 45, middle-class and moderate, creating a district where Sen. Daniel Akaka beat Rep. Ed Case by just four votes.

The profile of District 40 aptly fits Har, a one-time Mazie Hirono aide, who vows to be fiercely independent and not some rubber-stamper for her party or special interests.

Some of her ideas include making sure developer impact funds for infrastructure stay in the community instead of going into the general fund. In that case, Har's not thinking partisan, she's thinking about the people in District 40.