The lead story in yesterday's Honolulu Advertiser was about Lt. Gov Mazie Hirono receiving a free round trip ticket to Washington, D.C., courtesy of Continental Airlines.
Them, on June 28, the Advertiser reported that Rep. Cynthia Thielen tried to persuade House Speaker Joe souki to refrain from voting on a House bill that would limit pay for trustees of charitable trusts. Thielen said Souki was paid a consulting fee for a real estate deal involving Bishop Estate.
Thielen's complaint was that Souki should not vote on the bill because it may appear to be a conflict of interest. Souki disagreed and continually said that Thielen was out of order.
It's time that Hawaii's politicians face up to the facts.
Them, on June 28, the Advertiser reported that Rep. Cynthia Thielen tried to persuade House Speaker Joe souki to refrain from voting on a House bill that would limit pay for trustees of charitable trusts. Thielen said Souki was paid a consulting fee for a real estate deal involving Bishop Estate.
Thielen's complaint was that Souki should not vote on the bill because it may appear to be a conflict of interest. Souki disagreed and continually said that Thielen was out of order.
It's time that Hawaii's politicians face up to the facts.
Even if legislators perform their tasks in the best ethical manner, their connection to private business will appear as a conflict.
It makes the people in the state think their elected officials are not dealing honestly and that their votes are influenced by these businesses.
It's time for members of the House and Senate to stop giving lip service to ethical concerns and begin to practice what they preach.
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