If Hawaii is in play it's because of the threat of terrorism. There are also a lot of military and vets out there. Cheney is the ideal guy to send there.
I'd send Cheney anywhere for that matter. He is so smart. Even the dims will admit that. He made Leiberman and Edwards look like fools in the debates.
But yes, I agree with you. The terrorism issue is likely the reason they have shifted 20 points to the right since 2000.
Do I hear 21? :-)