Beyond the Candidates: Understanding Hawaiʻi’s Constitutional Amendment Questions

Citizens United, Free Speech & Hawaii’s Act 11: What’s Really at Stake?Episode

Citizens United. Super PACs. Act 11. The Yamada Case. These terms are frequently discussed in political circles, but what do they actually mean? In this episode of Faith and Family First, host Eva Andrade is joined by former State Representative Marcus Oshiro and retired attorney Jim Hochberg to examine the constitutional principles behind campaign finance law and political speech. The discussion begins with a review of the landmark 2010 Citizens United decision and explores what the ruling did—and did not—change. The conversation then turns to Hawaii’s own Yamada case, in which Jim Hochberg played a direct role, and how it affected campaign spending regulations in Hawaiʻi. The panel also discusses Hawaii’s newly enacted Act 11, the constitutional questions raised by the law, and the recent lawsuit filed by the Grassroot Institute. Along the way, they examine the role of unions, corporations, disclosure requirements, independent expenditures, and the ongoing tension between government regulation and First Amendment freedoms. Whether you’re a candidate, voter, activist, or simply trying to understand the issues shaping Hawaii’s political landscape, this episode provides important context for one of the most significant public policy debates of the election season. Don't forget to subscribe to the FFF podcast for more in-depth discussions on social and political issues that matter to you!

Beyond the Candidates: Understanding Hawaiʻi’s Constitutional Amendment Questions

Buzzsprout Summary: In this episode of Faith and Family First, Eva Andrade and Marcus Oshiro welcome attorney Jim Hochberg for a practical conversation about the two constitutional amendment questions Hawaiʻi voters will see on the November ballot. While many voters focus on candidates, constitutional amendments can shape Hawaiʻi’s laws and government for decades. The discussion breaks down the proposed county bonding authority for housing-related infrastructure, the proposed change to the timeline for Senate confirmation of judicial appointments, and the larger question every voter should ask: does this issue truly belong in the Constitution? Jim and Marcus offer different perspectives, giving listeners a thoughtful look at the arguments on both sides and encouraging voters to read carefully, ask good questions, and make informed decisions. Don't forget to subscribe to the FFF podcast for more in-depth discussions on social and political issues that matter to you!

After the Filing Deadline: How Christians Should Prepare for Hawai‘i’s Elections

The candidate filing deadline has passed, and Hawai‘i voters now have a clearer picture of who will be on the ballot. In this episode of Faith and Family First, Eva Andrade and Marcus Oshiro discuss what happens next in the election season and why voters should begin preparing now. Eva and Marcus talk about name recognition, campaign signs, door-to-door conversations, voting records, union influence, primary election dynamics, and the importance of looking beyond party and personality. They also introduce Hawaii Family Forum’s “Principles, Policy, and Plan” framework to help voters evaluate candidates thoughtfully and responsibly. The conversation also previews the upcoming constitutional amendment questions and why voters should take time to understand both statewide and county-level ballot questions before casting their votes. Don't forget to subscribe to the FFF podcast for more in-depth discussions on social and political issues that matter to you!

The Road to Election 2026: Campaigns, Candidates, and What Voters Should Know

As Hawaiʻi's 2026 election season begins to take shape, Eva Andrade and former State Representative Marcus Oshiro continue their conversation on what voters need to know before heading to the polls. The discussion begins with the June 6 candidate filing deadline and a look at several key races that could shape Hawaiʻi's political landscape. Marcus shares insights into open seats, vulnerable incumbents, and the factors that can make a candidate successful—or put their campaign at risk. Eva introduces her "Five P's" framework for evaluating candidates: Principles, Policy, Plan, Performance, and Personality. Together, she and Marcus explore why voters should look beyond party labels and campaign slogans to understand how candidates make decisions, what they have accomplished, and how they plan to serve their communities. The conversation then moves behind the scenes of campaign life, covering fundraising, endorsements, union influence, campaign calendars, grassroots outreach, and the importance of authentic connections with constituents. Marcus also shares stories from his years on the campaign trail, offering listeners a rare insider's perspective on what it really takes to run for office in Hawaiʻi. Whether you're considering running for office, volunteering for a campaign, or simply trying to become a more informed voter, this episode provides practical insights to help you navigate the election season ahead. Be sure to subscribe and join us next week as we continue our Election 2026 series, exploring how voters can make wise decisions—even when the choices on the ballot aren't always easy. Don't forget to subscribe to the FFF podcast for more in-depth discussions on social and political issues that matter to you!

Inside Hawai‘i Elections: Pulling Papers, Party Labels & Faithful Civic Engagement

In this episode of Faith and Family First, Eva Andrade and Marcus Oshiro continue their conversation on Hawai‘i’s election season by walking listeners through what it really means when someone “pulls papers” to run for office. Marcus explains the difference between issued and filed nomination papers, why campaign spending deadlines matter, and how voters can use public records to better understand who is financially supporting candidates. Eva and Marcus also discuss the changing dynamics within Hawai‘i’s Democratic and Republican parties, the importance of primary elections, and why people of faith should remain informed, engaged, and prayerful during election season. From candidate filings to voting records and party labels, this episode encourages listeners to look deeper, ask good questions, and stay involved in shaping Hawai‘i’s future. Don't forget to subscribe to the FFF podcast for more in-depth discussions on social and political issues that matter to you!