Natural calamities and a “no growth” local economy are not stopping Hawaii’s governor from posting strong approval ratings as he approaches the completion of his first term in office. Josh Green openly expresses his interest in serving a second four-year term as the state’s Democratic governor.
Despite Green’s ambitions, both he and state economists agree that Hawaii is currently experiencing an economic recession. Green recently described Hawaii’s situation as a “mild recession,” citing challenges such as the downturn in tourism — the state’s major industry — rising inflation, and the impact of U.S. trade policies and tariffs, all of which are negatively affecting local economic projections.
The University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization (UHERO) has highlighted that these economic conditions could slow job growth, with low-income households feeling the greatest impact as consumer costs rise. However, economists point out that the construction sector remains a source of strength amid these challenges.
Governor Green remains optimistic, stating, “I’m fighting hard to make sure that Hawaii comes out much better than anyone would expect given the current political landscape.”
At the same time, the public is taking notice and rewarding the 55-year-old Democrat with strong job approval numbers. A new survey released earlier this month by Morning Consult shows Green with a 64% job approval rating, placing him among the top four governors across the nation in the latest rankings. The survey, conducted from July to September among registered voters in each state, further notes:
“For the first time since late 2023, Josh Green of Hawaii is the most popular Democratic governor in the country, edging out Andy Beshear of Kentucky, Ned Lamont of Connecticut, and Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, who all join him in the top 10.”
While Green is proud of his high ranking, he acknowledges that Hawaii fits into the broader national political picture. In an email interview, he said:
“Hawaii’s geopolitical importance is clear to the current administration, and I always emphasize the need to support our state in a way that’s consistent with our values. We have deep disagreements over some policies, but I don’t let that become a conflict that will damage our priorities like housing and affordability, homeless solutions, or land use.”
He added, “It is a very delicate situation, to say the least, but I am told that Hawaii is considered important to the administration and our leadership team is respected in D.C. Big issues on the near horizon include the military land leases and a major benefits package for Hawaii if they choose to condemn any land for national security reasons, health care funding, and energy support.”
As of press time, Governor Green was in Washington, D.C., attending a series of national meetings. According to a news release from the governor’s office, “Green is expected to meet with the U.S. secretaries of Energy and the Interior, as well as top officials at the Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, as well as top military officials.”
Upon his return, expect a fresh wave of news — if not actual progress — on the state’s plans regarding a new stadium.
Green has confirmed that Hawaii’s New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District will host the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), although not until at least March 2029, when the new multipurpose stadium is scheduled to open.
Last week on Maui, Green met with UFC President Dana White and UFC BMF champion and Waianae native Max Holloway for a donation to assist wildfire survivors. During the meeting, they also discussed hosting a UFC event in Hawaii for the first time, according to a report in the Star-Advertiser.
https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/26/editorial/on-politics/gov-green-goes-to-washington-over-military-health-energy/