Impeachment defense lacking
Seriously? The Republican/Trump impeachment defense is Hunter Biden’s possible wrongdoing? That’s the best excuse they can come up with?
Even if Trump had that specifically and only in mind, why did he hold up aid to Ukraine about it? There were a number of other ways he could have investigated this allegation. If all of this is so clear and clean and obvious and aboveboard, why don’t we hear from Trump’s advisors, and clear it up immediately?
Note to Republicans and Trump supporters: Go back and read the articles of impeachment. The first one is about abuse of power. It isn’t about Hunter Biden. The second one, even more importantly, is about obstruction of Congress. This isn’t about Hunter Biden, either. It’s about defying legitimate subpoenas. Obstruction. It’s about not letting anyone associated with the White House testify. Obstruction. Not one document or record was released. Obstruction.
And, in withholding the release of these funds, Trump obstructed Congress after both the Senate and House agreed to send military aid to Ukraine. Obstruction.
Like it or not, the House has the sole power of impeachment. Nowhere does the Constitution say the president has the right to block this process. Obstruction.
The House of Representatives has presented facts, documents and testimony that back up the charges of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress. Trump’s defense team is trying to rationalize his actions by feeble accusations against someone unrelated to the articles of impeachment. News flash: this is not about Hunter Biden. It is about obstruction.
Phyllis Hanson
Keauhou
Government or mafia?
Is our government becoming the “mafia” by charging developers protection money? Senate Bill 2610 would do just that.
If Gov. David Ige had let law enforcement do its job, the Maunakea protest would have been over the first day. Letting the protestors put up tents along the road, providing them porta-potties and allowing illegal camping is thereby encouraging them to stay.
They claim to love the mountain so much and it is sacred to them, then look at the mess they’ve left.
Paul Prosise
Kailua-Kona
PUC should put consumers first
Hawaii Island rocks with green power. We have renewable energy firms fighting among each other and against each other to supply power to Hawaiian Electric. We as consumers and and Earth citizens should be overjoyed? Well, the problem is supply and not sell. And in this state, with all our regulations and protected industries, it’s sad that it’s always about maintaining the status quo. What happened to the free market of who can produce the cheapest and cleanest and most reliable power? No, it’s going to courts and commissions for protection. And with that we lose. I would urge the PUC to look at the consumer first.
Steve Kaiser
Hawi
Gambling already exists in Hawaii
Legalize gambling in Hawaii? Sure, who would be against it?
The League of Women Voters for one. This same organization that believes in free elections are also the strong opponents to any form of gambling. Perhaps, it is because a certain number of members are so against gambling and the hardship it brings to willing adults, then it should forever remain off-limits to anyone who wants to throw their hard-earned money away.
But don’t forget that we do have gambling in Hawaii. And it’s legal. How about playing the stock market? Or starting a business in Hawaii; it’s legal, but it sure is a gamble when the Legislature has so many laws against it being successful.
Michael Last
Naalehu