If you are going to run for political office, it is a good idea to register to vote. If you are going to be Hawaii’s top election official it is a requirement of the job. Somehow, Hawaii’s Chief Election Officer Kevin Cronin forgot to do just that. 

Cronin was appointed to the position in February. As the filing deadline for the primary election ended last week, Cronin finally registered to vote. Obviously, someone did not do a background check when he was appointed to the job. By not being registered, he was not qualified for the job he has held since February. 

Republican Governor Linda Lingle called it “shocking and embarrassing.” 

The Hawaii Elections Commission is now investigating the incident and Cronin’s job status.