Gov. Josh Green’s Re-election Path: A Look at Hawaii’s Primary

Democratic Hawaii Governor Josh Green has achieved a noteworthy victory against three lesser-known opponents in the state’s primary election.

First elected in 2022, Green entered the Saturday primary holding a 56% approval rating. His success in the primary strengthens his position for re-election. The Cook Political Report gives Democrats a 13-point advantage.

Green’s challengers included David “Duke” Bourgoin, George “Teva” Lucas-Tadeo, and Lauren Kapoliahiʻiaka Shim. Bourgoin had previously contested against Green and managed only 590 votes against Green’s 158,161 votes. He also lost two mayoral races in Honolulu.

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Lucas-Tadeo, despite the rising appeal of Democratic Socialists nationally, didn’t win over local Democrats. His Instagram proposals such as publicly run grocery stores and marijuana legalization failed to resonate.

Neither Lucas-Tadeo nor Shim established campaign websites or raised funds by late June, according to Honolulu Civil Beat. In contrast, Green’s campaign raised about $3.5 million, significantly ahead of Republican Gary Cordery’s $313,000.

Since 2010, Hawaii has not had a Republican governor. Democratic primaries typically attract candidates with high recognition. For example, in 2022, besides Green, contenders included Rep. Kai Kahele and Vicky Cayetano.

John Hart, a professor at Hawaiʻi Pacific University, highlighted Green’s popular policies. “Why run a campaign likely to fail when more attainable offices exist?” he remarked.

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Green discussed his administration’s response to the 2023 Lahaina wildfire and March Kona low storms. These events inflicted considerable losses and damages.

In a tour of damaged areas, Green showed FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell the aftermath.

“We were present, competent, and compassionate,” Green told Civil Beat, noting the positive feedback received.

“Our actions didn’t create a situation for other Democrats to contest,” Green added. “We focused on doing the job without causing divisive conflicts.”

Elaine Mallon, a Fox News Digital and Business writer, covers national political developments.