Photo: AFP / Jim Watson
Two Governors of United States Pacific territories, Arnold I. Palacios of the Northern Marianas and Pulaalii Nikolao Pula of American Samoa have announced plans to join President-elect Donald Trump's Republican Party.
"I was elected to serve the best interests of the people of the Northern Mariana Islands above all else, and that commitment remains unwavering," Governor Palacios said.
He said it is clear to him that Trump and the Republican Party's message of freedom, opportunity, and strength at home - and on a global stage - best aligns with the vision and priorities of improving the economy and creating better opportunities for every family in the Northern Mariana Islands.
Office of Governor Arnold Palacios. 19 July 2024 Photo: Facebook / Office of Governor Arnold I. Palacios
"I look forward to working with fellow Republicans on our shared work ahead," he said.
Palacios ran for governor as an independent in 2022, and his running mate was David M. Apatang. Palacios initially lost the race against incumbent Governor Torres, of the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Republican Party.
However, as no candidate had received more than 50% of the vote, a run-off election was held in which Palacios was victorious.
Meanwhile, the Governor of American Samoa, Pulaalii Nikolao Pula, said that "it is clear to me that Republican Party values of respect for God, country and family are Samoan values".
"President Trump and the only GOP's (Grand Old Party) ironclad commitment to reforming the federal government, along with growing the economy, will greatly benefit American Samoa, as we develop a partnership to build a strong economy here over the next four years."
Inauguration ceremony for American Samoa's new leaders Photo: Supplied
Congresswoman Amata Coleman Radewagen of American Samoa, the most senior member of the Republican National Committee, added: "My job of making sure the Trump Administration pays close attention to the needs of our islands will be greatly strengthened with the backing of these two strong leaders. I have known both of them for decades."
In response, Republican National Committee chair Michael Whatley said that "following President Trump's landslide victory in November, enthusiasm for the Republican Party is at historic highs and America's future is bright again".
"I am proud to welcome governor-elect Pula and Governor Palacios to the Republican Party as just the latest proof that our common-sense agenda represents victory for all Americans, from the islands to the mainland," he said.
Republican Governors' Association Chair, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, also welcomed the Pacific Governors into the Republican fold.
"Republican leadership delivers economic results, safe communities, and opportunity for all.
"I am proud to welcome two new Republican governors to our movement and congratulate governors Pula and Palacios on taking this bold step for their constituents."