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Hawaii Democrats Converge for Convention

By Zahid Arab

HONOLULU-- (KHNL) With about a week until Senators Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton clash in Puerto Rico's primary, it remains a heated tango to the top of the democratic ticket.

But here in Hawaii, election fever is still burning strong.

In a sea of signs and supporters, it's a rally to get ready for what's being called the most important presidential election in 40 years. 29 delegates and four alternates will be selected to represent Hawaii at the Democratic National Convention in August.

"This is our chance to change our face to the world. I believe our individual vote is going to count more than it ever has before," said U.S. Congressman Neil Abercrombie.

"We're getting to participate in a historical time where we can either support a black man for president or a woman," said Renea Stewart.

Ben Lowenthal's choice between Obama and Clinton wasn't so clear cut. He supported John Edwards but now swings his support towards the Hawaii-raised Punahou graduate.

"By his ability to bring in people who normally don't participate in this process, by doing that he has an edge in one winning and two making his policies a reality," said Ben Lowenthal.

A reality that his supporters say is focused on the idea of "Obama Ohana."

"There's this notion that if we band together and we remember that we in fact are a family that we can accomplish great things and we can do so with civility," said Maya Soetoro-Ng.

Clinton or Obama, delegates say they have their choice, but the common goal is to take American pride air born.

A number of Hawaii democrats will address the convention, but a face that's missing is Senator Daniel Inouye. he'll make his message through a videotape presentation since he's getting married in Los Angeles this weekend.