Baker’s consistent efforts to block the imposition of a robust ivory ban are at odds with the opinions of Maui residents and her Democratic Party. Even Republicans Chris Christie and Arnold Schwarzenegger have supported equivalent bans already passed in New Jersey, California and New York.
Elephants are at grave risk of going extinct should immediate measures not be taken. Baker knows this but favors political self-interest over the elephants’ survival. Last year she blocked a similar bill from being heard in the Senate, causing the elephant to lose a year’s worth of time – something that it could not afford to lose.
Only the most heartless would believe that ivory trinkets are worth the mutilation and suffering of this animal who, given their remarkable memories, do not forget the trauma or the betrayal at the hands of humans.
Hawaii has an immense interest in ensuring that wildlife is protected. Hawaii cannot convincingly demand protection of its reefs and sea life and, at the same time, profit from this grisly trade.
Call out Baker for her cruel vote and the six other senators (English, Inouye, Kidani, Kim, Slom and Taniguchi) who voted against SB2647.