American Samoa elects new governor and lieutenant governor in runoff election

American Samoa has elected a new governor and lieutenant governor in a runoff election. Pulaalii Nikolao Pula and Pulu Ae Ae Jr received 5,846 votes (59.8%), defeating incumbent Governor Lemanu Peleti Mauga and Lt Governor Laapui Talauega Eleasalo Ale, who garnered 3,925 votes (40.2%). Pulaalii, a long-time civil servant, and Pulu, a retired U.S. Army member, gained significant support in key districts. They won by large margins in Tuala-uta, Pago Pago, and Ituau, while Lemanu and Laapui only led in four out of 17 districts. The results are unofficial until confirmed in seven days. Pulaalii and Pulu will be sworn in on January 3, 2025.