Political Action

Electing Candidates Who Have Your Back

The people we elect determine the quality of our lives and our livelihood. Our wages, benefits, working conditions, healthy and safety, and even whether we have jobs at all, are in the hands of officials who influence our future. Here’s actions you can take to make sure we’re dealing with union-friendly politicians next legislative session.

Vote

Your vote determines which candidates will have a say on your working conditions, wages and benefits.

Volunteer

Candidates need more than just your vote to win.

Contribute

Contribute to AFSCME PEOPLE to fund the fight for workers’ rights and get the right candidate elected.

Success at the Ballot Box

Your votes on Nov. 5, 2024 helped elect union champions.

U.S. Sen Mazie Hirono

State Sen. Lorraine Inouye

Hawaii County Mayor Kimo Alameda

State Rep. Sue Lee Loy

Honolulu Councilman Scott Nishimoto

State Rep. Ikaika Olds

HGEA Members Helped Elect Kimo Alameda Mayor of Hawaii County

In a tough race against incumbent Mayor Mitch Roth, who oversaw severe staffing shortages and an overworked and demoralized workforce, HGEA members spoke up in support of challenger Kimo Alameda.

HGEA members were featured in newspaper ads, radio spots and TV announcements sharing their personal experience with Alameda. Their advocacy made all the difference.

Are you registered to vote?

Don’t let your vote go to waste. It’s never too early to register as a new voter or update your current registration.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vote by Mail

Why does Hawaii vote by mail?

Act 136, SLH 2019 implements all elections be conducted by mail. The law removes using polling places where voters cast their ballots on election day, and instead a ballot is automatically mailed to registered voters.

How do I vote?

You must be a registered voter to receive a ballot. Your Clerk’s Office will prepare and mail your ballot packet approximately 3 weeks before the election.

Once you have voted your ballot, simply place the ballot in the secrecy envelope ensuring your right to secrecy, and then place into the return envelope. Be sure to sign the return envelope. A return envelope without a signature will not be counted.
You may return your voted ballot: by mail, or in-person at a designated place of deposit. All ballots must be received by your Clerk’s Office by 7 PM on General Election Day. Postmarks do not count!

What if I didn’t receive my ballot?

Ballot packets are mailed to all properly registered voters will receive ballot in the mail by October 21. If you do not receive your ballot packet, contact your Clerk’s Office.

What if I make a mistake on my ballot?

If you make a mistake, misplace, or damage your ballot, you may request for a replacement ballot with your Clerk’s Office.

Will my vote still count if I did not vote on all measures and/or candidates?

Yes, your ballot will still be counted.

Can I change my mind after I’ve returned the ballot?

No. Once you return your ballot and is received by the Clerk’s Office, it is considered cast and you will not be able to receive a new ballot.

Why do I have to sign the return ballot envelope?

Your signature on the return envelope enables election officials to verify you as the voter. The signature you provide on the return ballot envelope is verified against the signature on file in your voter registration record. If you do not sign your return ballot envelope, your ballot will not be counted.

How can I receive my ballot if I’m on vacation or away at college?

If you will be away from home during the elections, you can request your ballot be sent to an alternate address. Complete an Absentee Ballot Application and submit it to your County Elections Division no later than 7 days before the election.

Can I still vote in person?

Voter Service Centers offer in-person accessible voting and voter registration, and are open 10 days before and on Election Day. Locations and hours will be announced closer to the election.