Despite some great match-ups – headlined by Gov. David Ige vs. Colleen Hanabusa in the Democratic Primary – the Maui County turnout for the Aug. 11 Primary Election was terrible.

Out of 94,194 registered voters, only 34,105 (36.2 percent) participated.

If you care about Maui and its future, you have to vote.

The 2018 General Election on Tuesday, Nov. 6, could bring dramatic change to Maui County government.

Many familiar faces are running for the County Council. This year, they face serious contenders in the ‘Ohana Candidates, who pledge to shift government “to serve the common good, instead of big money interests,” their website notes.

This year, there are strong races for our West Side seats.

Green Party candidates Jen Mather and Melissah Shishido will take on Tenth District Rep. Angus McKelvey and Sixth District Sen. Roz Baker, respectively. Republican Chayne Marten is also back to run for West Maui’s State House seat.

Will it be Rick Nava or Tamara Paltin for the West Maui County Council seat.

Will voters elect West Sider Elle Cochran to mayor, or will Mike Victorino win?

Learn about the candidates and vote! County Councilmembers and state legislators make decisions that impact you and the West Side.