Our media partner KITV has this report on Hawaii Gov. David Ige’s first 100 days in office. Excerpt:

“You know I didn’t realize how much international interest would be involved with the job. I’ve met with many consul generals and honorary counsels expressing interest about expanding business development and travel from a lot of different points all around the world,” said Gov. David Ige.

Like his predecessors, Ige continues to pursue visa waiver programs. As for the greatest challenge of being governor, Ige says putting together a cabinet, crafting a $25.7 billion operating budget and preparing for the legislative session is enough to test any leader.

He says his first 100 days is all about establishing his vision for the state.

“It really is about fulfilling the vision that we all have. I think we all understand how special Hawaii is. We have gifts, natural gifts that we owe a duty to future generations to preserve and protect,” said Ige. …

Gov. David Ige delivering his State of the State address Jan. 26.

Cory Lum/Civil Beat

Ige also continues to defend his appointment of Carelton Ching to lead the Department of Land and Natural Resources.

“It’s a couple things,” he said. “He does have executive experience that I was very interested in. You know, he was very early in his career. He was instrumental in resolving the conflict with the Waihole-Waikane Community Association and the State of Hawaii as we had just transitioned and had committed to preserve those valleys.”

The governor said Ching also has experience in water development, preservation of lands and land management.

Ching’s confirmation hearing is Wednesday before a Senate committee.