In ConCon fight, roles are reversed
Related News
- 07/13/10 — Secretary Reed certifies I-1082 for the ballot
- 07/12/10 — Liquor privatization certified for ballot
- 07/09/10 — Measures on pot, pollution trail in Field Poll
- 07/08/10 — Judge Yanks Redistricting Amendment from Fall Ballot
- 07/04/10 — Big money commands attention and protest in Missouri
- More Other Issues news
The Honolulu Advertiser: The last time Hawai'i held a Constitutional Convention, in 1978, the focus was on a political power struggle between the "haves" and the "have-nots." In many ways, that same picture is emerging today as the state contemplates holding yet another convention to look at, and possibly revise, our constitution. The big difference is that the forces that want change and those who are comfortable with the status quo have - in many respects - switched sides. Proponents this year of a Constitutional Convention, ConCon for short, include some conservative groups and the Republican Party, who have made league with political leaders who are deeply frustrated with the ability of the Legislature to deal with today's problems. Opposing the ConCon are many labor unions and a loose coalition of environmentalists, Native Hawaiian groups and social reformers who fear gains made in the previous two conventions could be lost. In essence, talk about a Constitutional Convention always divides those who are essentially comfortable with the status quo against those who want change and see no other way to achieve it. Now, in 2008, the picture is entirely different. Growth is less of an issue while a staggering economy is at the forefront. Energy prices are soaring, and the legal and philosophical debate over the constitutionality of Hawaiian entitlements is working its way up and down the court system.
To read more click here.
Comments
There are no comments for this entry.
