Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Acting Treasurer Brett Butler did not secure confirmation from the House of Representatives during the vote last Thursday. In this instance, only 8 representatives supported his nomination as Treasurer of the American Samoa Government, while 10 voted against it.

Previously, in a vote conducted the prior week, Butler had secured 10 affirmative votes, which were insufficient for confirmation, as he required a majority. That vote also featured 9 dissenting votes. During Thursday’s session, Representatives Lua’itaua Gene Pan and Manavaalofa Tutuila Manase were absent, and Representative Fagaima Larry Sanitoa arrived after the announcement of the voting results, as the House session commenced earlier than its customary start time.

The Senate however, unanimously endorsed Butler’s nomination for the position of Treasurer. Consequently, the Governor holds the option to resubmit Butler’s nomination during the forthcoming session of the Fono.

Butler has served as Acting Treasurer since September of the previous year and has substantial experience in financial management, having previously served as the Governor's Financial Advisor. His expertise is crucial to addressing the territory's financial complexities, underscoring the significance of his confirmation for the sustained fiscal health of American Samoa, according to the administration.