Groups upset with Hannemann’s use of slogan

Two Hawaii environmental groups are criticizing Democratic gubernatorial candidate Mufi Hannemann’s campaign for using a slogan long associated with efforts to block development.

A Sept. 8 ad Hannemann’s campaign bought in the North Shore News says when it comes to “Keeping the Country … Country, Mufi was always there for us.”

It cites several actions the former Honolulu mayor took that his campaign asserts were environment-friendly.

But the Hawaii chapter of the Sierra Club and Defend Oahu Coalition contended Monday that his record was friendlier to developers, particularly those proposing to build more hotels near the Turtle Bay Resort.

They also say the ad inappropriately used a copyrighted slogan.