HEAR THE FACTS FROM SYLVIA
By now, you have likely seen headlines about my campaign and about past campaign contributions that I have received. Many of my supporters have expressed confusion about the facts and timelines in the stories, and have asked for clarification. I am grateful for this opportunity to explain in detail.
UNION SUPPORT
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Ready Keiki is the state’s multi-faceted plan to ensure all Hawaiʻi children are ready for kindergarten—supporting their future success and promoting economic stability for local families. Launched in January 2023, the initiative is led by Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke.
By 2032, Ready Keiki aims to provide preschool access for all Hawaiʻi 3- and 4-year-olds.
Everyone needs a reliable, high-speed Internet connection. Unfortunately, nearly one in ten Hawaiʻi residents does not have connectivity at home.
Connect Kākou is a State of Hawaiʻi initiative aimed at closing the gap by investing more than $400 million in federal funds in broadband infrastructure and related programs.
DON'T FORGET ABOUT LAST TIME
Rich, controversial PAC backing Kawakami in lieutenant governor race
Hawaii News Now, April 1, 2026
A political action committee (PAC) formed by the carpenters union and Pacific Resource Partnership has begun spending money to support Kauai Mayor Derek Kawakami in the lieutenant governor race, drawing criticism from incumbent Sylvia Luke.
The PAC, known as “For a Better Tomorrow,” has already spent about $75,000 in television time and an undisclosed amount for production of the 30-second commercial. The committee has more than $12 million available.
What the Carpenter's Couldn't Buy
Aloha State Daily, Sterling Higa, March 17, 2026
ASD columnist Sterling Higa writes that the PAC of the Carpenters Union has spent millions opposing candidates who have opposed rail spending, including Sylvia Luke. Now that she's politically vulnerable and facing challengers, the union might be getting what it wants.
Media Statement - Negative Attack Ads
sylvialukeforlg.com, August 5, 2022
David Shapiro called it in his Volcanic Ash column on Sunday, “Hawaiʻi Carpenters Union wields oversize political hammer.” The union’s campaign of retribution against my campaign for Lieutenant Governor has begun. I’m being punished because in 2017, I refused to saddle the residents of Oʻahu with a permanent tax increase to fund the rail project.