Hawaii News Now
Hawaii News Now offers a center-leaning perspective with a focus on international relations and government accountability.
What This Tone Is Based On
The tone scores on this page come from analyzing how this show covers each political figure it mentions. Below is the breakdown of how many of those reads were positive, neutral, or negative.
Net media tone Slightly Positive across 160 figure-in-episode tone reads (not audience/impressions).
How Hawaii News Now Differs from Other Shows
Compared to 127 outlets · Sep 2025–Aug 2026Overall this show runs more favorable than the rest of the media — mean tone +0.08 vs the media's -0.10.
- Todd Blanche+0.03more favorable vs. other showsShow→ +0.04Other shows→ +0.0112 eps
Delta = this show's tone toward the figure minus the average across all 127 other tracked outlets that covered them ≥3 times, Sep 2025–Aug 2026.
Positive = friendlier here; negative = harsher.
Editorial Identity
The editorial fingerprint of this center local news show — who it elevates, who it goes after, and where it breaks from the pack.
Hawaii News Now is a local news program that leans slightly to the center, with a strong emphasis on policy issues, particularly those involving international relations and government accountability. The show frequently covers topics like Iran & Middle East Policy and National Security & Defense, often with a critical eye on government ethics and corruption. It tends to provide a balanced view, with a mix of supportive and critical tones towards various political figures.
The show tends to cover figures like Xi Jinping and Volodymyr Zelensky more favorably than the media average, reflecting a nuanced approach to international figures. It also shows a supportive stance towards Lindsey Graham and Bill Cassidy, particularly in the context of their policy stances and actions.
Hawaii News Now is notably critical of figures like Samuel Alito, particularly in the context of rulings related to immigration and asylum. The show also highlights issues of government weaponization and ethics, often in a critical tone, suggesting a focus on holding government actions accountable.
Hawaii News Now stands out in its coverage of China, with a significantly higher lift compared to other outlets, indicating a strong editorial focus on this issue. Additionally, its favorable coverage of Xi Jinping is a notable deviation from the broader media landscape, suggesting a unique editorial stance on U.S.-China relations.
Who Hawaii News Now boosts and attacks
Tracked figures split by this show's average tone toward them, each with the clips behind the call — tap a quote to jump to the audio.
Hawaii News Now covers 1 tracked figure without a clear favorable-vs-critical split.
“the final Republican holdout in the Senate. Bill Cassidy said today he will vote yes for Todd Blanche to be the next attorney general, likely securing Todd Blanche's confirmation.”
“Maine Republican Susan Collins now says she'll vote not to confirm Todd Blanche. She says Todd Blanche eroded Justice Department independence by approving the deal to insulate the president from IRS audits.”
“the Senate Judiciary Committee is now expected to advance Todd Blanche's nomination to the full Senate.”
Thin sample — 12 analyzed episodes across these figures; treat the split as directional.
Coverage Volume
Transcribed episodes per week — last 26 weeks
Sentiment Trajectory
Average weekly tone toward figures — green favorable, red critical
Whose coverage is ramping up — and dropping
Ramping coverage of Thom Tillis and Scott Bessent. Cooling on Lindsey Graham, Marco Rubio, Pete Hegseth.
“Across N days” = distinct days behind the recent count; a single burst means it’s concentrated in ≤2 days — treat as one story, not a trend.
Top Issues Hawaii News Now drives
Top Issues ranked by lift — how much harder this show pushes an issue than the average outlet. ≥ 1.25× over-indexes.
Hawaii News Now pushes China hardest — 3.2× the average outlet's rate of coverage.
Show organizations & places →Organizations & Places They Focus On
Recent Stories
Tropical Storm Lala is expected to strengthen into a hurricane as it approaches Hawaii Island, with significant impacts anticipated statewide. Residents are urged to prepare for strong winds, heavy rainfall, and potential flooding, especially on Hawaii Island, which is under a hurricane warning. Emergency services are mobilizing, and shelters are being opened across the islands to assist those in need.
Legend Storer has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including murder, after allegedly killing a security guard with a water jug. The case has drawn attention due to the violent nature of the crime and Storer's mental health evaluation request.
A judge is considering a request for a retrial in a case involving a juror's alleged misconduct after a jury convicted a Maui doctor of attempted manslaughter. The defense claims jurors did not follow legal instructions, raising questions about the integrity of the verdict.
Hawaii has confirmed its fifth case of cyclosporiasis linked to a military member, with the outbreak now affecting 47 states. The state health department is monitoring the situation closely, especially after detecting the pathogen in local wastewater.
Hurricane Lala has strengthened into a Category 1 hurricane, prompting concerns among residents in Hawaii about potential damage from strong winds and heavy rainfall. Shelters have opened across the islands, and residents are taking precautions by stocking up on supplies and securing their properties as the storm approaches.
The state land board has rejected a proposal to block Maui County from taking over a significant water system, favoring county control over the East Maui irrigation system. This decision follows extensive testimony from local farmers and environmentalists who support the county's management of water resources.
Hawaii is bracing for Tropical Storm Lala, which is expected to strengthen into a hurricane as it approaches the Big Island. Residents are stocking up on supplies and preparing for potential heavy rain, flash flooding, and strong winds, with shelters being opened statewide to accommodate those in need. Officials are urging the community to stay informed and prepared as the storm approaches.
The state will honor the life of former Governor George Arioshi, who passed away at 100 years old, with services next month. He was the first Japanese American governor in the U.S. and the longest-serving in Hawaii's history. The public is invited to pay their respects at the state Capitol before a celebration of life on Kauai.
The state land board is facing public testimony regarding a proposal that would prevent Maui County from taking control of a major water system. The county has sought control for two years, but the state recommends auctioning long-term leases instead. This has sparked concerns among local farmers and environmentalists about the implications for water access and management.
Legend Storr, a 20-year-old man, pleaded not guilty to charges of murder and burglary in the death of a security guard at a Maui resort. The guard was killed with a water jug during a graveyard shift, and Storr is currently being held without bail. A GoFundMe has been established to support the victim's family.
Kamehameha Publishing showcases new books that celebrate Hawaiian culture and perspectives. Authors discuss their works, including themes of family secrets and the importance of local storytelling.
As a storm approaches Hawaii, the American Red Cross emphasizes the importance of preparedness. They encourage residents to create emergency kits and download their app for real-time updates on shelter locations and weather information.
Hoola Nippu discusses the ongoing issue of sex trafficking in Hawaii, revealing alarming statistics about local cases. They emphasize the importance of community awareness and training to combat this problem.
Hawaii Gas representatives provide safety tips for residents as they prepare for the storm. They advise checking appliances and ensuring gas tanks are stored properly, emphasizing that gas will still function during power outages.
Hawaii News Now announces the launch of its sports broadcasting partnership with the University of Hawaii. The new program will feature live games and behind-the-scenes content, enhancing local sports coverage.
A judge has denied Gerhard Koenig's request for a new trial after he was convicted of attempted manslaughter for attacking his wife. The court will investigate claims of juror misconduct before making a final decision.
Luigi Mangione pleaded guilty to charges related to the 2024 shooting of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson. The plea was unexpected, and prosecutors plan to pursue a life sentence, emphasizing the premeditated nature of the crime.
Tropical Storm Lala is moving closer to Hawaii and is expected to strengthen into a hurricane by Saturday morning. Preparations are underway on Hawaii Island, with officials urging residents to prepare for potential impacts including strong winds, heavy rain, and flooding.
A press conference was held to announce Lifeguard Appreciation Week, recognizing the bravery and dedication of lifeguards who protect beachgoers. Officials emphasized the importance of ocean safety as Tropical Storm Lala approaches, highlighting the need for public awareness and preparedness.
The Hawaii Rainbow Wahine volleyball match against Kansas State has been moved to Saturday at 12:30 PM due to safety concerns related to the weather forecast. This decision was made collaboratively by university officials and the visiting schools.