The nine candidates in the running for American Samoa’s congressional seat have been invited by the Student Government Association (SGA) at the American Samoa Community College (ASCC) to participate in a Congressional Forum that will take place on Thursday, October 23, from 12:30 to 2 p.m. in the College’s Gymnasium. Although the candidates will only address questions from ASCC students during the question-and-answer portion of the forum, the public is still welcome to attend and observe.

With excitement already building on the ASCC campus, the SGA is encouraging all students to attend this forum and to actively participate in the political process that will strongly influence the future of the Territory. “This forum will give students an opportunity to see and hear what the candidates are really like, as opposed to what people are telling us about them,” observed SGA Secretary Lottie Haleck.  “It’s a chance to question each candidate about their platforms and their plans for our future. Your vote is your voice in our government. It’s important for ASCC students to attend so that they will be able to make a truly informed decision on Election Day.”

SGA Sophomore Representative Ina Tupufia echoed the sentiment that young adults concerned about the future direction of their home should take advantage of their voting power. “This forum is important for the students of ASCC because we should care for the future of American Samoa,” she said.  “It’s important that we students have a chance to hear first hand from candidates, because sometimes our parents or our family try to influence our decision as to who is truly qualified.  If American Samoa is going to have a bright and prosperous future, we have to make our votes count.” 

With so many vying this year to represent us in Congress, SGA Freshmen Representative Merry Seuseu encouraged her fellow students to take this opportunity to better understand the candidates. “The forum will make students better informed and give them the opportunity to decide for themselves which of those running have what it takes to qualify for the seat,” she said. “Voting is a sign that you believe in democracy and that you feel that is a worthwhile and important thing every time you vote.”

SGA Honorary Member Joseph Vitaliano also feels that when weighing choices, nothing can substitute for listening to the candidates interact with each other and address questions from the public. “Students should be fully aware of the background and eligibility of the candidates so they can choose for themselves who they feel would govern our Territory equally and fairly,” he said. “Also, if they have questions or doubts, the forum will provide students with a chance to voice them.”

For more information on the Congressional Forum taking place Thursday, October 23 from 12:30 to 2 p.m. in the ASCC Gymnasium, contact the SGA at 699-9155, extension 341.