​The State Of Hawaii Organizaton Of Police Officers (SHOPO) Endorses Duke Aiona for Governor

HONOLULU, July 19, 2022 – The State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers (SHOPO), which represents over 2,700 police officers throughout the State of Hawaii announced today its endorsement of Duke Aiona for Governor.

“Judge Aiona will bring much needed leadership, transparency, and integrity to law enforcement and public safety at every level and this will unite our residents to better ensure a safe, healthy, and positive Hawaiʻi. Judge Aiona stands for law and order and police officers feel compelled to stand with him as he works with us to improve public safety,” said SHOPO President Robert “Bobby” Cavaco.

Stephen Keogh, SHOPO Vice President, points out that while SHOPO had originally intended to remain neutral in the state’s highest political race, “Given Aiona’s experience, leadership, and dedication to keeping Hawaiʻi’s communities safe, SHOPO was moved to endorse Duke Aiona because he stands for justice and will make sure police officers are able to protect everyone’s safety. We believe that Hawaiʻi needs a trusted and proven leader who keeps his word and who will work with everyone across the board in order to make life better for all and not just a chosen few.”

As a former City and County of Honolulu Deputy Prosecutor, Aiona prosecuted career criminals through successful vertical prosecutions resulting in long-term sentences. As a Circuit Court Judge, Aiona worked to improve the justice system by starting the State’s prevention and rehabilitative focused Drug Court. As Lieutenant Governor of the State of Hawaiʻi, Duke Aiona understood the need for safe and secure neighborhoods.

“I’m both humbled and proud to receive this very meaningful and courageous endorsement by my brothers and sisters in law enforcement. I continue to pledge myself alongside these brave men and women in making Hawaiʻi a safer, stronger, and better place to live for all of our people – keiki, kupuna, and families alike,” said Duke Aiona.

According to Shawn Cavaco, SHOPO Director at Large and Chair of its Political Action Committee, “This statement of support and our matching work behind it is a no-brainer for many of us given Duke’s experience, leadership, and integrity. We look forward to working with Duke towards a more safer and positive Hawaiʻi.” 

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