Three men with similar stories, and passion that drives them to serve our country and our State.
Veterans, businessmen, community leaders

Unified mission and vision for Hawaii: The Hawaii Republican Party is extremely proud of our candidates who will represent our islands in Congress. They collectively represent over 80 years of military service, 50+ years of business ownership, and unending commitment to Hawaii's families and the underserved. Read highlights below of Conrad Kress, Bob McDermott, and Joe Akana and you will learn just how equipped, ready, and eager they are to champion our voice in Congress.

To hear more from all three about how they would address the critical issues facing the people of Hawai'i, you can listen to their interview on the Stand for Hawaii radio program by clicking here! 

Conrad Kress for US House of Representatives, District 1 

Decorated Military Veteran: Conrad Kress is longtime resident of Hawai’i and a 41-year military veteran. As a US Navy SEAL (CDR ret), his service included a tour at the White House Medical Unit (WHMU) under President George W. Bush. Enlisted in the Navy in 1977, Commissioned as a Naval Officer in 1991. Served in numerous Areas of Operation including the Horn of Africa, Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan and throughout the Indo-Pacific theater. Retired active duty as Commander at Special Operations Command Pacific where he served as the Theater Special Operations Command Surgeon. Conrad is a Fellow of the Asia Pacific Center for Security Studies.

Community Advocate: Conrad is the Co-founder of “Beyond The Teams” a non-profit organization raising awareness and funds for other non-profits. Please see: http://beyondtheteams.org.

Medical Consultant: He sits on the Board of Directors for VIP Neurorehabilitation Center in San Diego, CA. Please see: https://www.vipneurorehab.org/

World Missions Leader: Conrad has been active in Uganda for nearly two decades establishing medical clinics partnered with local ministries in the region.

To hear more about from Conrad on how he would address the critical issues facing the people of Hawai'i, you can listen to his interview on Hawaii Public Radio by clicking here! 

Joe Akana for US House of Representatives, District 2 
 

Hawaiian Roots, Military Service: A graduate of Kamehameha Schools in Honolulu, Joe Akana served 10 years as an Intelligence Analyst in the U.S. Air Force and received his Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resource Management. After his enlistment ended, he began a highly successful career in Sales & Marketing. He later moved to the financial arena, specifically, home mortgages and equity lines. Joe has a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Hawaii Pacific University and a second Master’s Degree in Strategic Intelligence from the National Intelligence University.

Government Experience: Joe is a retired project manager and analyst with the U.S. Government and currently President of Arete Management, Inc. also a business development coach for start-up businesses and entrepreneurs. He has an incredible aspiration to empower others to reach for their dreams and goals and pursue their God-given gifts and talents, “Empowering You to Empower YOU!” is one of his favorite quotes. 

Passion for Excellence in Service: Joe Akana is a Hawaii native with an impressive background demonstrating excellence in the areas of Military Intelligence, HR Management, Business Administration, and community service. With a heartfelt aspiration to empower and represent those in our community, he’s currently embarking on his next exciting endeavor - running for U.S. Congressional District 2 to be an elevated voice for the people of Hawaii.

Click here and listen in as Joe provides us an honest, open look at the current state of events here in Hawaii and shares what can be done to create a safer, transparent, and self-sustaining community.

Bob McDermott for US Senate

Decorated Military Service: Bob McDermott was a USMC Officer during the first gulf war. After spending 8 months in Saudi Arabia, he came home to Hawaii with his family, being honorably discharged after 8 years as a Marine.  

Dedicated Family Man: After giving birth to their first three biological children while in the Corps, Bob and Utu adopted Joey, a nephew from an abusive situation.  A few years later, they took in a baby boy who was exposed to methamphetamine in utero (Mata).  Mata did so well so the social work asked if the McDermott’s would take in the balance of the sibling group, a full sister (also exposed to methamphetamine in utero) and a half-brother and half-sister.  They eventually adopted the children and have been blessed many times over. They have 8 children now grown and healthy. 

Experienced and Effective Elected Official: State Representative McDermott is a conservative who stopped an objectional sexual lifestyles program designed for 10-year-olds; this program violated parental rights and was medically inaccurate. Representative McDermott believes his work history, military service, family life and faith in God is the moral crucible which forms his political views.  

Community Service a Family Affair: The McDermott family provides hope and help to all comers.  The community knows that they can come to Rep. McDermott’s office, regardless of the issue, and he will help them.  He never turns anyone away.  Mrs. McDermott serves as the back door to her husband’s office, bringing issues to his attention that need to be fixed.  They are a simple family, devoted to God, spiritually rich, with understanding and compassion while being true to their faith.

Click here and listen in as Bob McDermott shares his plans for Hawaii as a United States Senator.