Were there any people discouraging statehood?

Yes, there were people discouraging statehood in Hawaii. Some Native Hawaiians and other residents were concerned about losing their cultural and political identity if Hawaii became a state. They feared that statehood would lead to increased American control and influence over the islands and that their traditional ways of life would be eroded. Some also worried about the potential economic and environmental impacts of statehood, such as increased tourism and development.

In addition to these concerns, there were also some political and economic interests that opposed statehood. Some non-Native Hawaiian business owners and politicians were concerned about the potential for increased taxation and regulation that could come with statehood. Others worried that statehood would disrupt the existing power structures and economic arrangements on the islands.

Despite these concerns, the movement for statehood ultimately gained momentum and support in Hawaii. In 1959, a plebiscite was held in which a majority of voters supported statehood. Hawaii officially became the 50th state of the United States on August 21, 1959.