Former First Lady Vicky Cayetano has started her campaign for governor, focusing on providing affordable housing to Hawaiʻi residents — some of whom are having to leave the state.
"And the sad part is that many of those leaving are the young people, the future of Hawaiʻi. And I say to you today, if the future of Hawaiʻi is leaving our state, what future can we hope to have?" Cayetano said. "They leave because there aren't enough opportunities. They leave because they can't afford to live here."
"Their hopes, their dreams of ever owning a home will not be a reality under the present situation. This must change. As governor, affordable housing will be my first priority," Cayetano said.
Cayetano said she plans to implement an affordable housing plan through a “rent-to-own” program for individuals and families who are unable to make a downpayment but can manage monthly rent.
This would allow the buyer to pay a monthly rent that would also function as a mortgage payment.
She also plans to build dedicated workforce housing for health care workers, educators, and emergency response professionals.
