Mahina Poepoe, a native Hawaiian woman from Molokai, holds a degree in Public Administration from the University of Hawaii. She has experience as a business owner, having operated a local surf shop on Molokai. Poepoe has been actively involved in community advocacy, working with various environmental and health organizations, and co-founded Kūpeke Ahupuaʻa. Her leadership roles include setting a cap on short-term vacation rentals in Molokai and serving as Vice Chair of the Judiciary & Hawaiian Affairs committee in the Hawaii House of Representatives.

Mahina Poepoe's political identity is deeply rooted in her native Hawaiian values and community-centric approach. Her legislative efforts to cap short-term vacation rentals on Molokai reveal a commitment to preserving local culture and resources against commercial pressures. Poepoe's work with invasive species and conservation groups, alongside her healthcare leadership, showcases an unexpected blend of environmental stewardship and public health advocacy. Her role as Vice Chair of the Judiciary & Hawaiian Affairs committee further highlights a strategic focus on indigenous rights and legal frameworks.