The union representing University of Hawaiʻi faculty endorsed Wednesday current Lt. Gov. Josh Green for governor, and state Rep. Sylvia Luke for lieutenant governor.
The University of Hawaiʻi Professional Assembly, which represents about 3,200 faculty, said it is taking a new approach to its endorsements.
UHPA Executive Director Christian Fern said the union looked at how candidates for governor and lieutenant governor could function as a team, as well as their experience.
Fern said Green understands the challenges that the university and its faculty face — as well as the economic value that UH professors provide.
"Autonomy is also important to him. Micromanagement and meddling have been the underlying themes in this legislative session, but Josh Green understands that government needs to step out of the way for the UH to flourish. This is a refreshing breath of fresh air that is badly needed," Fern said in a statement.
On endorsing Luke, Fern said her experience as House Finance Chair will not only allow her to serve as a bridge between the Legislature and the governor, but create a more collaborative and productive relationship.
"As a product of the University of Hawaiʻi, Sylvia has a special affinity for the UH, and wants to elevate the UH to its rightful place," Fern said.
“This is a pivotal year. Hawaiʻi has an opportunity to change the way our state is led,” Fern said. “We need a governor who can keep the big picture in mind and offer the latitude to a lieutenant governor to also lead and not be stifled. We cannot afford to have a governor and lieutenant governor who are at odds with each other.”
