Two recent polls show Maui County Council member Sugimura leading incumbent Mayor Bissen by 14-15 percentage points in the upcoming mayoral primary race. Poll respondents cited housing costs, inflation, and government corruption as top concerns, with majority disapproving of Bissen’s performance on affordability and corruption reduction.
- Sugimura polls at 46-47% compared to Bissen’s 33-35% across two separate polls conducted in spring 2026.
- Sugimura’s lead has strengthened from a December poll showing a much closer 37% to 33% race.
- 62% of Maui County voters believe the county is headed in the wrong direction, citing housing costs and government corruption as primary issues.
- 63% of respondents disapprove of Mayor Bissen’s efforts to make Maui more affordable.
- Sugimura could potentially win outright in the primary if she reaches 50% of the vote.
Source: Hawaii Free Press
Share this article
