Sheila Medeiros

Sheila Medeiros served in the U.S. Army from 1986 to 2021. Medeiros served in the U.S. Army between 1986 and 2021. She earned a high school diploma from Mililani High School, an associate degree from Heald Business College in 1998, a bachelor's degree from Wayland Baptist University in 2000, and a graduate degree from Central Michigan University in 2006. As of 2024 is retired.[1]

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

My name is Sheila Medeiros. I am a proud mother to three incredible young adult children and a grateful, doting grandmother to a 10-month-old grandchild who has been with me for most of my campaign, sign waving, going door to door, and attending events. I am also the daughter of a brave Vietnam Navy Veteran and beloved hairstylist.

Furthermore, I am a retired Lieutenant Colonel of the U.S. Army, with over thirty years of service as an officer and paratrooper, including 14 years in the National Guard/Reserves and 20 years in Active Duty. I have experienced multiple deployments, including three in Afghanistan and one in Iraq. One of the most memorable moments of my career was participating in the 70th Anniversary of D-Day jump into France's eastern part. I was the only female paratrooper on a French Casa jumping with the United Kingdom and France paratroopers. I had the honor of being the first out the door, which allowed me to see Normandy, Utah, and Omaha beaches from the aircraft before I exited. Being part of the recreation and tribute to our D-Day heroes was a privilege.

After retiring, I started gardening and transformed my backyard into a tropical botanical garden. It's now filled with kalo patches, coconut trees, mango trees, four varieties of lilikoi fruit vines covering a pergola, a pomegranate tree, a guava tree, a mountain apple tree, mandarin tree, Brazilian rainbow peppers, Hawaiian chili peppers, and various tropical flowers.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Accountability in Governance - To ensure I am completely in tune with the community's needs and concerns, I will actively participate in our Neighborhood Board Meetings in person as my schedule allows. I believe it's crucial to engage with all segments of our district; therefore, I will attend precinct meetings across all political parties, reinforcing my role as a representative of the entire district. This approach will enable me to gather first-hand insights into the concerns, suggestions, and priorities of our constituents. This community input will be invaluable as I draft legislation that accurately reflects and serves the best interests of our district.Economic challenges are impacting the middle and lower classes through increasing inflation in everyday essentials like groceries, gas, and utilities, it's clear that we need rapid, effective solutions. By organizing town halls and precinct meetings, they can gain direct insight into the community's needs and prioritize actions accordingly. Initiatives can span from food donations to personal aid such as car or home repairs, as well as the establishment of community gardens. Safety is paramount,so thorough background checks for volunteers in these areas are essential. Through these community-led efforts, we have the potential to bring about immediate relief and cultivate a more vibrant, resilient community spirit.District 43 has grappled with the completion of the Makakilo Drive Extension (MDE). Unfortunately, despite the State Senate's approval, HR 62, which aimed to transfer authority over the MDE from the city and county to the state to secure federal funding for the extension, failed to pass the House of Reps during the recent 32nd legislative session. If I'm elected, I will promptly begin to establish relationships with key stakeholders in the state legislative branch to grasp the priorities of each legislator regarding their district and the 43rd district’s objectives for the MDE. I acknowledge that each elected official advocates for their community’s interests, and I appreciate the significance of understanding their priorities.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am committed to focusing on economic stability, affordable living costs, judicial reform, transparent governance, and developing options for energy, water, and food security. Once elected, I will carefully consider and adjust our priorities based on valuable input from community town halls, focus groups, and precinct meetings to ensure that our focus aligns with the needs of our constituents.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

The Holy Bible

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Accountability, Transparency, Servant Leader, Integrity, Proactive, Team player, Critical Thinker, Strategist, Engager, Tempered, Sound judgment, Community Connector, and effective communicator.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

1) Regularly communicate and engage with their constituents; 2) Set legislative priorities based on community input; and 3) Work across party lines and within their caucus to achieve community results.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

Participating as a paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne Division during the 70th Anniversary of the Normandy jump into the eastern flank of France was an incredible and unforgettable experience. Being the only female paratrooper on my flight (French Casa) and the first out of the door filled me with pride and excitement. Standing at the door as the aircraft flew over the historic beaches of Normandy was a moment I will always cherish. It was truly the highlight of my active-duty career, and I feel honored to have been part of such a momentous event.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

My first job was at Popeye's at age 15. I think I lasted less than a year.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

All levels of government need to maintain a professional, fair, and transparent relationship without any hint of favoritism or particular interest. This fosters trust and accountability.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

The biggest challenge will be managing economic stability and the cost of living in Hawaii. It is one of the most expensive states in the nation, with a growing homeless population and a declining local population. Many residents are moving out of state because the cost of living and housing affordability are pricing them out of the market.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

The most critical qualification for an individual to serve as a state legislator is the genuine and selfless desire to make a positive difference in the lives of others. It is this passion for public service that should be prioritized above all else. While knowledge of legislative processes is important, it can be acquired once elected to office. The notion that a legal background is a prerequisite for effective legislative representation is narrow-minded. Instead, legislators should reflect a diverse range of experiences, backgrounds, and education in order to effectively represent the interests of the entire community.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

Legislation cannot be accomplished in isolation; collaboration with other legislators is essential to pass bills. Understanding each legislator's district priorities is crucial to establish a basis for negotiation in order to gain support for district priorities.

Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

I don’t have a specific one in mind, but I draw valuable lessons and best practices from a variety of conservative sources.

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

I am fully committed to this race. My future political aspirations will be shaped by my family's priorities and divine guidance.

Both sitting legislators and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

I was truly moved by an unforgettable story shared by a veteran who dedicated 35 years to active duty. Upon retiring and returning home to Hawaii, he expressed his dismay at the overwhelming tax burden in our state. Despite his long and loyal service, he found it disheartening that his adult children couldn't afford to buy a home in Hawaii, where single-family homes start at $600,000 plus. Consequently, three generations now live under one roof. After much consideration, he's exploring the idea of relocating to Idaho or Tennessee, where the cost of living is more manageable, and where his children could have the opportunity to purchase a home.

Should the legislature oversee or grant the use of emergency powers?

Emergency powers should be subject to oversight by all three branches of government, ensuring a balanced and fair approach to their implementation.

What is the first bill you would introduce if elected?

I am dedicated to crafting laws that accurately reflect our community's needs and preferences. Their input is crucial in shaping our legislative priorities to effectively serve our community.

What committees interest you?

I aim to join committees that directly address the specific needs and priorities of my district.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

Financial transparency and government accountability are interlinked. It should not be an individual viewpoint, but a standard practice for those serving the public and managing taxpayers' money.

Would a state ballot initiative process be good or bad for your state?

Good