The powerful Hawaii Carpenters Union has endorsed former Honolulu city councilman John Henry Felix for the council seat left vacant by the death of councilwoman Barbara Marshall.

"In tough times, experience and know how are what's needed to help lead our communities and the Hawaii Carpenter's Union is proud to support John Henry as the most qualified candidate for the job," said Ron Taketa, financial secretary and business manager for the Hawaii Carpenters Union, the state's largest construction union. "He is the only candidate with experience working with both sides — organized labor and the private sector. We urge Windward residents to register and vote for John Henry."

Felix pledged to "help bring economic stability and jobs to residents and businesses on the Windward side and to ensure residents of District III are provided its share of services from the city."