Aloha State News

Hawaii has received a B- grade in a new report evaluating the redistricting processes across all 50 states. The report, released by Common Cause, assessed public access, outreach, and education efforts based on over 120 surveys and more than 60 interviews.

According to the findings, Hawaii's process was accessible and participatory but had limited opportunities for public input and transparency issues that affected public trust. The report emphasizes the positive impact of increased participation modes, particularly virtual options that allow more people to engage. It suggests that Hawaii can improve by allowing adequate time for public review of future maps and investing in early engagement.

Dan Vicuña, Common Cause national redistricting director, stated: “After a close look at all 50 states, this report shows more community voices produce better maps.” He highlighted the importance of meaningful participation in achieving fair elections.

Common Cause graded state-level redistricting processes nationwide. Some states were also graded on local processes if sufficient data was available. Participants were asked about accessibility, community group involvement, organizing landscapes, and use of communities of interest criteria.

Camron Hurt from Common Cause Hawaii emphasized the need for further improvements: “While Hawaii has a fairly accessible process, there is still more work to be done.”

The report underscores independent citizen-led commissions as effective reform tools. Such commissions are seen as prioritizing fair representation over party control.

Authored by Common Cause along with Fair Count and others, the report was published in collaboration with several organizations under CHARGE.