Congressional candidate Aumua Amata officially kicked off yesterday her 2014 campaign at Pulu’s Guest House in Pago Pago where many friends, family members and supporters attended, along with a live band, which provided dancing music.

Many others showed up to chat with the candidate and "talk story" before leaving due to work or other obligations for the day.

In her brief Samoan speech, Aumua expressed sincere thanks and appreciation to her supporters, friends and family members, who have elevated her up to a higher par as she seeks the Delegate's seat in Congress. On behalf of her campaign, she expressed appreciation to her beloved village of Pago Pago and all of the territory’s leaders and residents for their love and support. (see Samoa News June 9 edition for Aumua's official announcement of her candidacy.)

Among the speakers of the event, was campaign manager Pulu Ae Ae Jr., whose speech was very serious, but also cheerful and comical at times. He reminded everyone that Aumua is related to him and is considered his daughter, who has continued her quest over the years for the seat in Congress because of her firm belief in bringing blessings and goodwill to all of American Samoa.

“If it was me, I would have given up already,” Pulu told the crowd. “But not Aumua, who is persistent and does not give up easily, because she wants to serve our people in the U.S. Congress. She wants to make American Samoa a better place,” he said, and then acknowledged that he was once a Congressional candidate that ran against Aumua in the 2006 Congressional race.

In that race, Aumua and Pulu hoped to unseat Congressman Faleomavaega Eni, who in the end was re-elected again. Aumua was close behind, followed by Pulu.

Pulu told yesterday’s gathering that his first time as Congressional candidate garnered close to 1,400 votes, and he called on all those who voted for him at the time as well as any others who wanted him to be in Congress to “support and vote for Amata, who should be given a chance to serve our people in Congress.”

Pulu went on to thank Faleomavaega for his many years of service in Congress, but added that the Congressman is facing some health issues. However, “we must pray for Faleomavaega for good health,” he said and quickly added, that Aumua is the best choice as the next Delegate to Congress.

For the people of Manu’a, Pulu said if Amata is elected to Congress, it’s a sure thing that there will be a new boat to serve the island group right away because Amata will go straight to the White House to ask President Obama. Mentioning the President’s name brought immediate laughter from the crowd.

“Manu’a residents, including those in attendance, Amata will do the right thing and will get you that boat, instead of Manu’a having to wait around,” he said.

Another speaker of the day was former Pago Pago Senator Asuega Fa’amamata who said she is not used to politics and also acknowledged that she is related to Aumua.

Asuega said every voter is entitled to their choice as candidate but “if you believe this is the time for Amata to represent American Samoa in Congress, please vote for her because she is prepared and ready to serve our people.”

Others speakers were Amata’s campaign committee advisor Magele Aitaoto and campaign manager Unasa Leroy Ledoux.