03-09-2009 - Neil announces “I’m running for governor”

Neil Abercrombie first announced his intention to run for Governor of Hawaii on Twitter. He formally announced on March 9, 2009 at a news conference. He described his reasons for running in an online video, a news release, and in a letter to supporters. You can download the news release.

Here’s is a video of the day of his announcement produced by HDology.



And here is his letter to supporters

Aloha Everyone,

Barack Obama brought hope and change to Washington D.C. I'm running for Governor to bring hope and change to Washington Place.

As Honorary Chairman of the Obama Campaign in Hawaii, I saw how we could run a different kind of campaign that involved and inspired people and ultimately brought change to the Nation. Now, we must do the same for Hawaii.

The Office of Governor is not a stepping stone for me. To me, the Governor is the cornerstone for Hawaii's future. I know I can leverage my experience and relationships in Washington D.C. and use them for Hawaii's benefit.

For too long, the interaction between the Governor and Legislature has been one of stalemate and confrontation. Hawaii needs a Governor who sees Legislators as partners, not rivals. Particularly during these challenging times, we need strong political leadership that will bring people together to create a far-reaching vision for Hawaii's future.

Running for Governor is the culmination of my lifetime of public service. I love working with lawmakers, business, labor, and community leaders. Most of all I love working with you, the people who strive everyday at work and at home to build a better life and a better Hawaii. I am well aware that you often feel let down by Government. You don't want Government to do everything. But you want it to do what it is supposed to do, and do it well.

In the months to come, I will detail how we can make that change real by concentrating on our economy, energy independence, education and our environment.

The Obama campaign brought a new sense of purpose and focus to the entire nation. That determination to bring a new spirit of participation in politics did not end with the Inauguration. I'm running for Governor to bring the change that Hawaii needs and wants to believe in. Get Involved! Get Informed! Share your thoughts! Thank you again for your continued support over the years. Together, let's bring hope and change to the Hawaii we love.

Mahalo,

NEIL ABERCROMBIE

Rail at risk: Yesterday, Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann said he is "a step closer" to running for Governor. To run... http://bit.ly/auA861

Everyone is an Organizer: “This campaign is not about me. The people of Hawaii are the heart of this campaign.” ... http://bit.ly/aXlicA

Everyone is an Organizer: “This campaign is not about me. The people of Hawaii are the heart of this campaign.” T... http://bit.ly/aXlicA

Live interview in a couple of minutes (@neilabercrombie live at http://ustre.am/hiD)

Broadcasting live now! See me at http://www.neilbercrombie.com

Broadcasting live now! See me at http://www.ustream.tv/channel/neil-abercrombie

Broadcasting live now! See me at http://www.neilabercrombie.com

Broadcasting live now! Neil Abercrombie HQ Grand Opening at http://www.neilabercrombie.com

I have shared an audio update using #Cinch, check it out: http://bit.ly/cErEm4

Democratic Party Caucus Tonight: Tonight you have an opportunity to participate in politics at its most local, gra... http://bit.ly/d3qbGX

I have shared an audio update using #Cinch, check it out: http://bit.ly/dsogjy

Mayor Frank Fasi service program http://ow.ly/i/Cx2

I'm at Honolulu Hale, remembering Mayor Frank Fasi.

Restoring Trust: Yesterday, on his first day after formally leaving Congress, Neil Abercrombie filed his nominatio... http://bit.ly/aAs7dt

Rescheduled Grand Opening of Headquarters this Saturday, March 6, at 11 a.m.: We postponed the grand opening of Ab... http://bit.ly/bkJY1C