The American Samoa Legislature Fono building in Fagatogo Photo: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
The initial election returns in American Samoa give the incumbents, Governor Lolo Matalasi Moliga and his deputy, Lemanu Sialega Peleti Mauga, a substantial lead over second placed Faoa Aitofele Sunia and Larry Sanitoa.
The incumbents have 860 votes, with Faoa and Sanitoa on 483 and the third placed team, Tuika Tuika and Salanoa Iuni Maeva, on 63.
Our correspondent reports there are snags in the counting of some absentee ballots, with some not dated, and this has been challenged by the Faoa Sanitoa camp.
It also turns out the Election office is unable to determine whether some votes are local or from off island.
In the early congressional race results Aumua Amata is leading with 168 ballots, Mapua Jamias is second with 55, Vaitinasa Salu Hunkin has 35.