The Untold Story of Hawaii’s Funniest Politician: Augie Tulba
When you think of a city councilman, a career in comedy and a Golden Gloves boxing background aren’t the first things that come to mind. Yet, Hawaii’s own Augie Tulba, better known as Augie T., is redefining what it means to serve in public office while maintaining deep roots in humor, resilience, and a steadfast dedication to his community. In this candid conversation on Greater Good Radio, Augie shares a side of himself that many haven’t heard—a story of setbacks, sacrifices, and the powerful support of family and faith.
From Comedy Clubs to Council Chambers
For over 30 years, Augie Tulba was the face of Hawaiian comedy. A household name, he could fill theaters with laughter, bringing light-hearted moments to thousands across the islands. But when he decided to run for office, he stepped into a world that required more than just jokes—it required grit, humility, and a deep commitment to public service. Augie entered politics not for the spotlight but out of a genuine desire to make a difference. Growing up in public housing and witnessing his family’s financial struggles shaped his perspective on community issues, such as housing and affordability, and inspired his move to help others in similar situations.
However, his transition was anything but smooth. On the day he filed papers to run for office, he was abruptly fired from his radio job, forcing him into a difficult position. With his income gone and a campaign underway, Augie took a security job to make ends meet, balancing night shifts with his duties as a candidate. He and his family even took on Instacart deliveries to keep food on the table. “There were days we only made enough money for groceries that day,” he recalls. This experience reinforced his connection with the people he serves, reminding him of the challenges his constituents face daily.
A Legacy Built on Family and Faith
Behind every public servant, there’s a story of support, sacrifice, and sometimes, silent struggles. For Augie, family has always been at the center of his journey. Reflecting on the role of his father—a man who supported him through his comedy shows and boxing matches but never voiced his pride directly—Augie sees his father’s influence as both a source of strength and a reminder of the generational challenges he’s determined to break. Now a father himself, Augie takes immense pride in his children, including his daughter, who launched a nonprofit called BRAVE, focused on anti-bullying efforts. His daughter’s initiative inspired him to see his platform as a tool for positive change, ultimately leading him to run for office to serve his community on a larger scale.
Augie’s story of family extends beyond his immediate loved ones to the broader Hawaii community, where he’s known not only as a politician but as a voice for the everyday struggles of local families. Whether discussing homelessness, economic inequality, or affordable housing, Augie is determined to bridge divides and bring a voice to those who feel unseen. “I’m not just a council member,” he emphasizes. “I’m a dad, a son, and a part of this community. That’s why I’m here.”
Laughing Through the Struggles
While Augie’s life has been marked by serious challenges, he believes deeply in the healing power of laughter. “Comedy is a reflection of society,” he says, explaining how humor has always been his way of processing life’s ups and downs. But comedy alone wasn’t enough to meet his newfound calling. In stepping into public service, he had to temper his humor with a sense of duty and responsibility to the people who put their trust in him. From navigating the complexities of local governance to standing up for his beliefs even when it wasn’t popular, Augie has come to embody the idea that the best leaders are those who understand—and have lived through—the struggles of the people they serve.
His comedic persona has also made him relatable to a wide range of people, bridging communities and social divides in Hawaii. In his words, the goal is not just to make people laugh but to use humor to highlight important issues and start meaningful conversations.
Lessons in Resilience and Community
As he reflects on his journey, Augie remains grateful for every setback and every challenge. Whether it was knocking on doors as an underdog candidate or delivering groceries with his family to make ends meet, he has learned that true service comes from understanding the real struggles of the people. “If you want to know what’s going on, talk to people, knock on their doors, look them in the eye, and ask what’s on their mind,” he advises. It’s that authentic, face-to-face connection with the community that defines Augie’s approach and fuels his mission.
Ultimately, Augie Tulba’s story isn’t just about one man’s journey from comedy to council chambers; it’s a testament to the resilience, hope, and aloha spirit that defines Hawaii. By sharing his story, he hopes to inspire others to stand up, find their purpose, and use their voice to make a difference.
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