Washington, D.C. — Newly reelected Congresswoman Aumua Amata today issued a statement commending her friend Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard's meeting with President-elect Donald Trump.

"We in American Samoa were not surprised that my friend, colleague and fellow Samoan Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI) would take the opportunity to meet with President-elect Trump.  Had Secretary Clinton been elected, I would have done the same thing if invited to do so for it is in our nature as Samoans and Polynesians to try to build consensus as the underpinning of our decision-making, “ Aumua said.

“The adversarial system that is central to American politics has ground government to a near halt in Washington, which is why voters signaled their desire for change on November 8.  Whether Tulsi remains in the House or is offered a position in the Trump administration, I will look forward to collaborating with her over the next two years, particularly on issues of war and peace."

Amata concluded by saying, "With so many of our people in harm's way as members of the armed forces, I share her concern that we adopt policies that will protect our country while minimizing the danger to the lives of the people who defend us."