Caldwell Schedules Campaign Fundraiser For Governor’s Race

It’s the first time the Honolulu mayor has officially sought cash for a run for Hawaii’s top job.

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Civil Beat reported in August that Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is considering running for governor of Hawaii in 2022.

At that time Caldwell had announced a fundraiser Oct. 1 at the Waialae Country Club for the office of mayor, even though he cannot run next year for that job because he is completing his second and final term in January 2021.

Lex Smith, Caldwell’s campaign chairman, said the mayor was keeping his options open on which office to seek.

On Tuesday, Caldwell informed the state Campaign Spending Commission that he is now raising money specifically for a gubernatorial bid.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell speaks to joint FInance WAM committee meeting.
Mayor Kirk Caldwell testifying at the Legislature earlier this year. He has his eyes on higher office. Cory Lum/Civil Beat

The fundraiser is set for Tuesday evening at the Waialae Country Club. Suggested contributions range from $1,000 to $4,000.

Others in the race are likely to be Lt. Gov. Josh Green, who is a Democrat like Caldwell. He’s already raising money in that regard.

Republican Andria Tupola is also considering another run, having lost to Gov. David Ige in the 2018 general election. She held a fundraiser just last month.

Ige will complete his second and final term in December 2022.

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