Justin Herrmann is jumping into the Maui County mayoral race, rolling out a campaign that leans hard on financial accountability and a promise to rebuild public trust in county government. The Maui-based entrepreneur and community organizer says he wants to put residents at the center of long-term systems as the island navigates ongoing housing and disaster-recovery challenges. His chosen banner: U+ME=US.
In an email to supporters, Herrmann noted that he has lived on Maui for 12 years and described the island as “at a turning point” as families struggle with rising costs and housing insecurity. He said his run will center on financial accountability, rebuilding trust and practical systems that keep residents’ needs at the forefront. He pointed to volunteer relief work during the pandemic and after the 2023 wildfires as key experiences, and his campaign contact information and social handle were included in the message, according to Maui Now.
Relief Work and Grassroots Organizing
Herrmann has tied his candidacy to on-the-ground relief work on Maui. The group he cited, Hungry Heroes Hawaiʻi, is a grassroots nonprofit that coordinates meal distribution through volunteer kitchens and hubs across the island, according to the organization’s site. The Hawaiʻi Community Foundation lists Hungry Heroes Hawaiʻi among its Maui Strong Fund grantees, highlighting the group’s role in feeding displaced residents and helping sustain recovery logistics.
Local Track Record: A 2022 Council Bid
Herrmann is not a complete newcomer to Maui politics. He ran for the West Maui seat on the Maui County Council in 2022, campaigning on housing and transparency and elevating West Side concerns. That contest increased his visibility in local land-use and housing debates and gave him experience campaigning island wide. As reported by Maui News, he challenged incumbent Tamara Paltin in that race.
Where the Race Stands and What to Watch
Herrmann’s announcement drops him into a 2026 cycle in which incumbent Mayor Richard Bissen has already signaled plans to seek another term while overseeing Lahaina wildfire recovery. Bissen’s campaign has emphasized disaster preparedness and housing recovery as key priorities, and the County of Maui mayoral seat is on the 2026 election calendar. Hawaiʻi Public Radio covered Bissen’s re-election announcement, and the State Office of Elections lists the mayoral contest on its schedule.
Herrmann said he plans to launch a campaign website soon and to organize town halls across the islands. He characterizes his run as a residents-first effort that will focus on accountability and practical recovery work. As the 2026 season ramps up, expect official candidate filings, early endorsements and public events to follow. For now, Herrmann is signaling a platform centered on financial oversight, housing policy and rebuilding trust between county leaders and residents.
