Hawaii Senate Bill SB3241

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/26/22
• Refer: 1/28/22

Caption

Proposing An Amendment To Article V, Section 2, Of The Hawaii State Constitution To Require The Gubernatorial Nominee Of Each Political Party To Select The Party's Lieutenant Governor Nominee.

Impact

Should SB 3241 be enacted, it would significantly alter the election mechanism for the lieutenant governor in Hawaii. By requiring that the gubernatorial nominee appoint their lieutenant governor, the bill seeks to establish a more cohesive political pairing, promoting party unity. This change is anticipated to simplify the electoral process, potentially reducing confusion among voters about their votes’ implications while creating a clearer alignment between the governor and lieutenant governor candidates from the same political organization.

Summary

Senate Bill 3241 proposes an amendment to Article V, Section 2, of the Hawaii State Constitution, requiring that the gubernatorial nominee from each political party select a lieutenant governor nominee from the same party after the primary election. This amendment aims to streamline the electoral process for the lieutenant governor by eliminating a separate primary for that position, thereby aligning the selection process with that of the governor. As such, the votes cast in the general election for the governor would automatically apply to the lieutenant governor’s candidacy from the same party.

Contention

Despite the potential advantages, the bill is likely to ignite debates over party control and democratic representation. Proponents argue that party unity in nominations can lead to a more stable government, while opponents may raise concerns about minimizing the electorate's choice. Critics could argue that this amendment dampens democratic engagement by reducing the number of candidates that voters can consider for the role of lieutenant governor, effectively consolidating power within the party structure and diminishing open competition.