Esther Kiaaina, who is seeking the Democratic nomination for Hawaii’s 2nd Congressional seat, issued the following statement that takes issue with the use of “push polling” as well as new EMILY’s List TV ads:

We take serious issue with any attempt by candidates seeking the Democratic nomination for Hawaii’s 2nd Congressional  District seat to use misleading polls to influence voters. All candidates should be able to run on their accomplishments and qualifications instead of relying on “push polling” to sway voters. All candidates should also demand more responsibility from their campaigns and themselves. Voters deserve at least that much consideration in the final three weeks leading up to the Primary Election on Aug. 11.

I respectfully urge voters to reject negative campaigning and the propaganda of mainland interest groups. Please vote on the merit of who can best represent the people.

I am particularly offended by the ads being paid for by EMILY’s List, an organization whose supposed mission is to help women candidates. It is clear to me that all this group cares about is which candidate has the most money in her campaign war chest as opposed to which candidate is the most qualified or has demonstrated an ability to fight for women’s rights. Shame on EMILY’s List.

The national pro-choice group is currently airing ads for Tulsi Gabbard, one of Kiaaina’s opponents.