HILO, Hawaii – A long-time public servant and sitting county councilmember is going up against a kindergarten teacher in today’s primary.

Challenger Raina Whiting and incumbent Councilwoman Maile David are both running for the District 6 Hawaii County Council seat. The winner will represent a huge area, roughly half of the Island of Hawaii. The district stretches from South Kona to Volcano Village and includes all of Ka’u.

Both candidates spoke at the Democratic Party Grand Rally in Hilo on Friday evening.