It's classic political posturing. I like your idea. But it is only really useful when real numbers or answers are put next to the metrics you've supplied. I suspect your newspaper is only publishing results gathered by the POP group. I'd encourage you to get the real answers, independently of the candidates, and publish those as well.
Most barges return empty, or nearly so.
Young Brother's would be able to increase their gross revenues by filling empty space with revenue producing cargo and small businesses would benefit with reduced tariffs and an expanded market for their products. Airlines reduce fares to fill empty seats all the time. I have watched with growing dismay the difficulty of Maui's citizens to afford basic living costs without working two or three jobs. The cost of living is increasing on Maui but salaries and good paying jobs are not. I have also watched our Govenor travel throughout the Pacific Rim, to the Western States and to the Olympics.