Filipina American picked for high-ranking White House post

SCREEN CAPTURE / C-SPAN

Nani Coloretti during the Senate's confirmation hearing.

The U.S. Senate voted Tuesday, 57-41, to confirm Nani Coloretti to serve in the White House where she will serve as the deputy director at the Office of Management and Budget.

Coloretti will be the highest-ranking Filipino American in the Biden administration, says Hawaii's US Sen. Brian Schatz.

“This is a proud moment for Hawaii,” said Schatz in a press release. “Nani will bring strong leadership experience and the ability to inspire the next generation of Filipino American leaders in Hawai‘i and across the country. I am proud to call Nani a friend, and I look forward to continuing to work with her in her new role at OMB.”

"As the agency that oversees the implementation of the funding to execute the President’s agenda, OMB is one of the most consequential offices in the Federal government," says Rep. Judy Chu, D-CA, chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus.

Prior to her selection as deputy director of OMB, she was a Senior Vice President at the Urban Institute, an independent policy research organization and think tank dedicated to using evidence, insight, and analysis to advance upward mobility, equity, and shared prosperity all Americans.

Coloretti’s federal government service includes deputy secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Assistant Secretary for Management and Acting CFO of U.S. Department of the Treasury, and Acting COO of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Before joining the Obama Administration in 2009, she served as Policy and Budget Director for San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom. 

Before joining the federal government, her experience includes work in San Francisco to improve the lives of children, youth, and families; program examiner and Presidential Management Fellow in the Office of Management and Budget and work on the State of Hawaii budget. 

She was born and raised in Hawaii. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in economics and communications from the University of Pennsylvania in 1991 and a Master of Public Policy from the University of California, Berkeley in 1994.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Don't miss additional commentary, news, views and tips from an AAPI perspective by following @DioknoEd on Twitter.

Hawaiian music legend Willie K. succumbs to cancer

RIP: Bluesman Willie K, aka William Kahaiali'i.

Hawaii music legend Willie K. died May 18 surrounded by his family. He had been battling cancer for the last two years. William Awihilima Kahaiali’i was 59.

“We are sad to announce that Willie K has passed away on Monday night (May 18th) in his home in Wailuku surrounded by his ohana,” according to an announcement on his Facebook and Instagram accounts.

“He fought hard for over 2 years while still performing. In mid-February of this year, he was hospitalized for pneumonia which caused complications with his lung cancer,” his family wrote in the social media posts. “He was in positive spirits and doing okay, and he was looking forward to performing again. He then suddenly turned for the worse and lost his battle.”

The family thanked everyone “for all the love, support and prayers you have given.”

Willie K was born and raised in Lahaina, Maui, among his large musical family. The award-winning and Grammy-nominated singer and musician was known for the wide range of music genres he was able to revel in. He was noted as a Hawaiian blues artist but he was equally comfortable singing Hawaiian folk songs or opera.

The Honolulu Pulse wrote: “Willie K can play or sing almost anything an American audience might ask for,” that wasn’t hype, it was the literal truth. The Hawaiian phenomenon Willie K is undoubtedly the only artist in the world who can go into an Irish pub in the middle of Maui and play anything from indigenous acoustic Hawaiian music to jazz, reggae, rock, country and even opera—and not only get away with it but leave everyone within earshot slack-jawed in astonishment. No less than Prince was a huge fan, calling Willie K a “funky mother#%@&er.”

Musically versatile, blues was his favorite genre. "I love playing the blues and I don’t think that’s ever going to change,” he reported. “Blues is so special to me because it’s the only type of music where both vocals and guitar can become emotional at one time."

Some of his favorite musical memories he jammed with included B.B. King, Prince and Willie Nelson, and he performed with stars like Steven Tyler, Alice Cooper, Mick Fleetwood, Taj Mahal, Pat Simmons and ZZ Tops’ Billy Gibbons, at his annual blues festivals.

Below, Willie K's versatility is demonstrated in the videos below:

 “Willie K. was not just a unique artist with diverse range – I also considered him a friend. Whenever we met, he would sing my favorite aria – Nessun Dorma – which is not a song found on the set list of many artists," said US Sen. Mazie Hirono. " I will miss Willie, his exuberance, and his talent. I join all of Hawaiʻi in extending my deepest condolences to Willie’s family. Aloha, my friend.”

US Sen. Brian Schatz recalled the late artist as a man who had “bridged blues and Hawaiian, local and mainstream, music and culture. Willie K blazed a trail that redefined music in Hawai‘i and helped other local artists succeed. … While he will be greatly missed, his music will live on.”

Hawaii's Gov. David Ige accurately described him as “a unique talent whose huge voice effortlessly ranged from Hawaiian music and the blues to opera — all in one performance.”

Music historian Harry B. Soria Jr. spoke for many in saying simply, “There may never be another Willie K, with such raw yet polished talent.”

In describing himself, he said, “I am unlike any other Hawaiian that’s ever been seen or heard before.” Indeed!

Willie K is survived by his wife, Debbi Kahaial'i, as well as their four children, Karshaun, Max, Lycettiana and Antoinette. A celebration of his life will be announced.

Congressional representatives' statements on Filipino American History Month

The mural in Los Angeles' Filipinotown depicts Filipino American history. It can be viewed at 1644-48 Beverly Blvd.

ON THE FIRST OF OCTOBER, Monday, members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) released the following statements in recognition of Filipino American History Month, which is celebrated throughout the month:

Rep. Judy Chu, D-CA, CAPAC Chair:

“Filipino American History Month is an important time to celebrate the rich heritage and significant contributions Filipino Americans have made to our nation since the arrival of the first Filipino immigrants in 1587 on what is now considered U.S. soil. Since then, Filipino Americans have contributed greatly to the diverse tapestry of America, serving as laborers, health care providers, educators, entrepreneurs, elected officials, and military service members. Last year, I proudly joined my congressional colleagues to recognize over 200,000 Filipino and Filipino American World War II veterans with the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian honor that Congress can bestow. As Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, I will continue to fight for the Filipino American community all across our nation and ensure that we honor and uplift their contributions for generations to come.”

Senator Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill:

“During Filipino American History Month, we celebrate the incredible contributions and sacrifices Filipino Americans have made to our great nation over many years. From serving in the U.S. Armed Forces during World War II, to strengthening our economy by helping to shape emerging technology and health care industries, the Filipino American community has overcome prejudice and discrimination to thrive and become a vital part of the American story.”

Senator Brian Schatz, D-HI:

“This month, we celebrate the vibrant culture, hard work, and strong values of the Filipino American community. For generations, Filipinos have made Hawai‘i and the United States their home. From labor to business to arts and education, Filipinos have helped write the history of our state and our country. Some of the most significant contributions came from the more than 200,000 Filipinos who fought alongside American service members during World War II. Far too many of them have still not received the basic veterans’ rights they earned. As we celebrate Filipino American History Month, we must continue our efforts to honor those brave Filipino veterans and their families by finally giving them the benefits and recognition they deserve.”

Rep. Jimmy Gomez, D-CA:

“As the Representative of Historic Filipinotown in Los Angeles, I’m proud to celebrate the rich history, culture, and contributions of the Filipino American community. From World War II veterans to farmworker organizers, the Filipino American community has played an instrumental role in shaping the trajectory of our nation. The everyday contributions of Filipino Americans in Los Angeles – from business, to entertainment, to public service – continues to make our city one of the most vibrant in the nation. I am honored to join my colleagues in recognizing the Filipino American community’s achievements and serve as their champion in Congress.”

Rep. Al Green, D_TX:

“From culture to innovation, the labor movement, civil rights, and intellectual prowess, Filipino Americans have continuously been in the arena of change and justice in the United States. As we celebrate Filipino American History Month, I am proud to serve and advocate for the second largest Asian American population in the nation as a member of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus.”

Rep. Barbara Lee, D-CA:

“Every October we mark Filipino American History Month. This is an important time for our nation to reflect on the history and culture of Filipino Americans, who have served proudly in our armed forces, started small businesses and excelled in the arts and sciences. These contributions help enrich our East Bay culture and values. I am proud to join in marking this month with our community in the East Bay and across the country. As a member of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus and co-chair of the CAPAC Health Care Task Force, I will keep fighting in Congress for policies that uplift and empower all members of our AAPI and Filipino American community.”

Rep. Grace Meng, D-NY:

“I am proud to salute the tremendous accomplishments made by Filipino Americans and I thank the Filipino American community for contributing enormously to our nation. Last year, Filipino World War II veterans were finally awarded with the Congressional Gold Medal, an overdue honor for which I was proud to advocate. They put their lives on the line to preserve and protect our democracy. Presenting them with Congress’ highest civilian honor finally provided these veterans with the recognition they long deserved. I continue to applaud their service and I am honored to celebrate the achievements, heritage and values of all Filipino Americans. I send my warmest wishes for a happy Filipino American History Month to all who celebrate.”

Rep. Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan, D-MI:

“In honor of Filipino American History Month, we reflect on the struggles and victories of our brothers and sisters from the Philippines over the centuries. We remember the first immigrants from the Philippines who sweated in the fisheries of Louisiana and the pineapple plantations of Hawaii. We thank the Filipino farmworkers who advanced our labor rights from the grape fields of Delano. We honor the Filipino soldiers who fought in World War II and all the wars that followed. And we recognize the Filipino artists whose talents enliven our culture every day. In my home district of the Northern Marianas, Filipinos are an indelible part of the community. They teach our children. They care for our sick and our elderly. And they provide much needed labor to expand our economy. As we reflect on Filipino Americans’ contributions to our society, let us also pause to recognize the sacrifices they have made to build and defend our country.”

Rep. Bobby Scott, D-VA:

“I am pleased to celebrate Filipino American History Month, and I am honored to be the only currently serving Member of Congress with Filipino ancestry. Filipino Americans have made fundamental contributions to society, from music to union strikes; from education to serving in our Armed Forces, they have served unselfishly for the greater good of our society. As we celebrate this special month, let us remember the innumerable contributions made by Filipino Americans, especially the sacrifice of those who served in military during World War II.”

Rep. Scott Peters (CA-52):

“It’s an honor to represent the almost 200,000 Filipino-Americans that call San Diego home and join them in celebrating Filipino American History Month. San Diego is proud of our military history and cultural roots, which were largely shaped by our Filipino community. Since World War II, Filipino-Americans have courageously served in the Navy, which increased Filipino immigration to San Diego and built the communities we have today. As a member of CAPAC, I’m working to make sure our Filipino community is represented and their veterans get the care and support they earned.”

Asian American senators blast GOP health plan, search for 3 GOP senators to vote conscience over tax breaks for the rich

SCREEN CAPTURE / MSNBC

Protestors blocked entry to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell's office after text of the GOP Senate health care bill was released Thursday. They were forcibly removed by capitol police.

SENATE REPUBLICANS today (June 22) unveiled their secret proposal to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act, AKA Trumpcare, and it ain't pretty.

The Better Care Reconciliation Act in a nutshell: Poor people will pay more for less health care. 

"The Senate Republican plan gives massive tax cuts to Trump’s billionaire friends while forcing millions of working Americans to pay more for less care," said Sen. Tammy Duckworth, D-Illinois.

The Senate version was done in secrecy by 13 male senators with no input from Democrats or women senators. Senate leader Mitch McConnell said he would try to pass it before the July 4 recess. In contrast, Obamacare was passed only after a year of hearings and Republican amendments.

"It also guts Medicaid funding that new mothers, children, seniors, Veterans and people with disabilities rely on to lead full, happy and healthy lives," stated the Thai/American senator. "Does the President—do Republicans—truly believe this is the ‘single greatest health care plan in the history of the world?’ The American people certainly know it isn’t.”

“Health care is a right, not a privilege reserved for those who can afford coverage. Particularly for people living with serious diseases, Trumpcare sends a clear message – you’re on your own,” said Sen. Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii. “Americans with pre-existing conditions would suffer under Trumpcare. That’s why we will do everything we can to fight this mean bill.”

Sen. Kamala Harris, D-Calif., listed the disastrous impact of the proposed health plan. "This bill jeopardizes protections for those with health insurance through their job, putting nearly half of the country back at risk of going bankrupt if they get a serious illness or injury. It guts Medicaid, and threatens services for children with disabilities. It allows seniors to be charged more, making it harder to retire with dignity. It discriminates against survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. It limits access to tax credits for Californians to make health care more affordable. And Republicans passed this bill even while admitting they do not know how much it will cost, or how many tens of millions of Americans will lose coverage.

Although there are 52 Republican senators, It's not certain that Majority Leader Sen. Mitch McConnel has enough votes to pass the BCRA. The proposal needs 51 votes to pass but already some senators have expressed strong concerns about the bill. At least four senators representing the extreme right (Ted Cruz of Texas, Rand Paul of Kentucky, Mike Lee of Utah and Ron Johnson of Wisconsin) said the proposal doesn't go far enough in dismantling the proposal. At least two GOP women senators (Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska) have said they would not vote for a plan that would defund Planned Parenthood.

Two Republican defectors would end up in a tie setting up the scenario where Vice President Mike Pence would cast the deciding vote. One guess which way he would vote.

Assuming Collins and Murkowski vote against the BCRA, there is need for one more brave Republican to break from party ranks. Is there one more GOP senator who would vote in favor of the people and not for tax breaks for the 1% and profit for Big Pharma and the healthcare insurance business? Just one more who will put country before party? Just one?

“This bill is not just about medicine or math— this is about morals," continued Indian/American lawmaker Harris. "Americans are counting on us to make their health care more affordable and accessible."

Sen. Brian Schatz (below) gave a convincing speech against the GOP proposal. He represents Hawaii, the state with the highest percentage of AAPI residents in the U.S.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Earlier versions of this post did not include comments from Sen. Brian Schatz of Hawaii.

There will be more updates as we further study the GOP proposal. We'll give the last word to former President Obama, who continues to be the object of senseless hatred from the far right, whose name is attached to his signature piece of legislation -- Obamacare. One of Obama's flaws was his willingness to bend over backwards to appease conservatives. 

"I hope that our Senators, many of whom I know well, step back and measure what’s really at stake, and consider that the rationale for action, on health care or any other issue, must be something more than simply undoing something that Democrats did.

We didn’t fight for the Affordable Care Act for more than a year in the public square for any personal or political gain — we fought for it because we knew it would save lives, prevent financial misery, and ultimately set this country we love on a better, healthier course."

"[I]t remains my fervent hope that we step back and try to deliver on what the American people need.That might take some time and compromise between Democrats and Republicans. But I believe that’s what people want to see. I believe it would demonstrate the kind of leadership that appeals to Americans across party lines. And I believe that it’s possible — if you are willing to make a difference again. If you’re willing to call your members of Congress. If you are willing to visit their offices. If you are willing to speak out, let them and the country know, in very real terms, what this means for you and your family."

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Sessions insults the entire state of Hawaii

HERE'S NEWS for Attorney General Jeff Sessions: Hawaii has been a state of the United States of America for the past 58 years; and Donald Trump is not a king

According to The Washington Post, in an interview on “The Mark Levin Show,” a conservative talk show, earlier this week, Sessions said, “I really am amazed that a judge sitting on an island in the Pacific can issue an order that stops the president of the United States from what appears to be clearly his statutory and constitutional power.” 

As an Asian/American, here's how I interpreted Session's words: How can a brown-skinned judge in the barely civilized, foreign island of Hawaii populated by "others," stop the decree issued by the most powerful ruler on the planet?

Talk about throwing shade against an entire state! AG Sessions marveled at the ability of a judge on an island in the Pacific could stop the Executive Order of King ... er ... Mr. Donald Trump that sought to ban Muslims traveling to the U.S.

U.S. District Judge Derrick Watson, who was born and raised in Hawaii, issued an order staying Trump's second Muslim ban from being implemented. Sessions implication drew the ire of the state's two U.S. Senators.

Other members of Congress joined in:

In a statement issued Thursday afternoon, Hirono, who sits on the Senate Judiciary Committee that vets and confirms federal judges, tweeted out a picture of the unanimous roll call vote confirming Watson. She called Sessions’ suggestion that Watson is somehow unable to carry out his duties impartially “dangerous, ignorant, and prejudiced.”

“I am frankly dumbfounded that our nation’s top lawyer would attack our independent judiciary,” she said. “But we shouldn’t be surprised. This is just the latest in the Trump Administration’s attacks against the very tenets of our Constitution and democracy.”

Sessions should know that the judiciary is a branch of the government that is CO-EQUAL to the executive and legislative branches. 

"Our Constitution created a separation of powers in the United States for a reason," said Hawaii's Attorney General Doug Chin. "Our federal courts, established under article III of the Constitution, are co-equal partners with Congress and the President. It is disappointing AG Sessions does not acknowledge that.”

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