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Rep. Kaniela Ing takes to social media to become the only State Representative and only Asian/Pacific Islander (API) Legislator to veer from Hillary Clinton and endorse Senator Bernie Sanders for the Hawaii President Preference Polls (Caucus).

“Hope for a Generation: Why I’m Endorsing Bernie Sanders

As the youngest legislator in Hawaii, and as a first-generation college graduate from a working-class family, I understand the frustrations that today’s young people have towards their government.

I have experienced firsthand how upward mobility has dithered in our nation, and how big money has corrupted our democracy and allowed this to happen. Campaign finance reform must be a priority for our next President.

As a Democrat facing my own Primary challenger, I have been advised to stay neutral in Presidential politics, but I cannot remain neutral any longer. This election is too important. That’s why today I’m endorsing Senator Bernie Sanders to be the next president and commander-in-chief of the United States–the only candidate walking the talk to get big money out of politics.

Since coming of age, my generation has witnessed partisan gridlock, incivility, and failed policies that favor big-money special interests. We are a generation of hope living in a time of fear. And for the first time in America’s history, our generation may not be better off than our parents, which is antithetical to the American Dream.

I viewed a college degree as my ticket to the middle class, but it feels more like a never-ending bill. We’re looking to start a family but may be forced to choose between a paycheck and bonding with our newborn. Climate change may soon flood the South Maui neighborhood I live in, but its being ignored by politicians beholden to corporate polluters. And my partner is still getting paid less than men do in her line of work.

But debt-free college, paid family leave, equal pay, GMO labeling, pesticide regulation, indigenous rights, even peace and prosperity abroad…whatever issues matter to us, the people’s work will be undermined so long as the extremely wealthy remain in control. Campaign finance is the one reform that will make all other reforms possible.

Bernie Sanders has run a campaign funded by small donations averaging $27, and like myself, he will fight for clean elections and ending unlimited campaign spending. Because Bernie believes that elections should be carried by big ideas, not big donors.

And now, I ask you to join me and support Bernie Sanders for President of the United States. Together, we can bring about a revolution at all levels of government, and secure a future of hope for my generation and those to follow. Mahalo.

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