AGP Executive Report

Territories’ Voting Rights: About 3.6 million people in U.S. territories—including American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands—can vote in presidential primaries but not the general election, a gap tied to the Insular Cases. Pacific Fisheries: President Trump signed a proclamation reopening parts of three Pacific marine national monuments to commercial fishing, including waters near American Samoa’s Rose Atoll, drawing mixed reactions from local leaders and conservationists. Local Fisheries Voice: Gov. Pula’ali’i stressed tuna’s importance at the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council, which recommended steps to secure an albacore allocation for American Samoa. Community Concerns: Puipui Measina’s chairman said he’s disappointed by the Rose Atoll fishing move and is considering legal action. Marine Monitoring & Markets: DMWR flagged concerns about foreign vessels’ bycatch potentially entering Pago Pago markets and urged better documentation to protect local fishers. Deep-Sea Mining Watch: BOEM updated the council on deep-sea minerals leasing near American Samoa, saying the plan is still in the area identification and environmental review stage. YouTube Feature: YouTube is rolling out a revamped direct messaging inbox, and American Samoa is listed among the places where it’s available.

Marine Policy Shock: President Trump signed a proclamation reopening commercial fishing in parts of three Pacific marine national monuments, including Rose Atoll near American Samoa, expanding access to about half a million square miles and drawing immediate pushback from conservationists and cultural practitioners. Local Fisheries Voice: American Samoa Governor Pula’ali’i stressed tuna’s importance at the Western Pacific Fishery Management Council, where the council recommended steps to secure an albacore allocation for American Samoa. Community Reaction: Puipui Measina chairman Motusa Tuileama Nua said he’s disappointed by the Rose Atoll move and is weighing possible legal action, warning enforcement gaps could worsen impacts. Market Integrity Concern: DMWR flagged worries that foreign vessels’ bycatch sold locally could undercut local fishers and complicate tracking, calling for better documentation. Deep-Sea Mining Watch: BOEM provided an update on early-stage seabed lease planning near American Samoa, while experts warn federal rules may be outdated and lack key oversight. Regional Safety & Service: US Coast Guard Cutter Hollyhock returned to Honolulu after Operation Blue Pacific, including a port call in Pago Pago where the crew serviced navigation aids and helped with a beach clean-up. Culture & Recognition: Hawai‘i Sea Grant’s “Voice of the Sea” won a record 10 Telly Awards, including a gold for a Papahānaumokuākea marine debris episode.

Marine Policy Shake-Up: President Trump signed an executive proclamation reopening parts of three Pacific marine national monuments to commercial fishing, including Rose Atoll near American Samoa, expanding access to about 500,000 square miles and aiming to boost U.S. seafood supply. Local Fisheries Reaction: American Samoa’s Puipui Measina chairman Motusa Tuileama Nua said he’s disappointed and is weighing possible legal action, warning that without strong enforcement presence, protections could be undermined. Regional Tuna Focus: Gov. Pula’ali’i Nikolao Pula told the Western Pacific Fishery Management Council that tuna is vital to American Samoa and pushed for a fair allocation of South Pacific albacore, with the council recommending a conservation and management measure to secure an allocation. Deep-Sea Mining Watch: At the council, BOEM provided an update that American Samoa’s seabed lease proposal is still in the identification and environmental review stage, while experts continue to warn federal rules may be outdated. Community & Services: Port Administration American Samoa says construction of the new Ofu Wharf Terminal Building is progressing, funded through a CDBG program, with completion targeted for late 2027.

Pacific Fishing Policy: President Trump signed a proclamation reopening commercial fishing in parts of three Pacific marine national monuments, including Rose Atoll near American Samoa, expanding access to about 500,000 square miles and triggering fresh debate over jobs and seafood prices versus habitat and cultural concerns. Local Fisheries & Governance: Gov. Pulaalii Nikolao Pula opened the Western Pacific Fishery Management Council meeting in Pago Pago, stressing tuna’s importance to American Samoa and pushing for a level playing field for local and U.S.-flagged fleets as key tuna decisions and deep-sea mining updates come up. Deep-Sea Mining Watch: Experts and local voices warn U.S. deep-sea mining rules are outdated as DOI prepares seabed lease sales, with the first slated for August in American Samoa, while residents call for clearer transparency on impacts and revenue. Community & Infrastructure: Port Administration American Samoa says construction of the new Ofu Wharf Terminal Building is progressing, aiming for completion and handover in late 2027. Public Safety: Police arrested a man after a reported machete threat during a domestic disturbance in Vaitogi, with multiple charges filed and the suspect held without bail. Service & Presence: The USCGC Hollyhock returned to Honolulu after its first Operation Blue Pacific patrol, including a port call in Pago Pago where the crew serviced navigation aids and volunteered at a beach clean-up. Sports & Identity: WTA player Destanee Aiava switched nationality from Australia to New Zealand ahead of retirement, with her American Samoa roots noted. Faith & Youth: Nuuuli Vocational Technical High School held its commencement, with Gov. Pulaalii urging graduates to “make your mark” and trust in God.

Marine Fishing Rollback: President Donald Trump signed a proclamation reopening portions of three Pacific marine national monuments to commercial fishing, including Rose Atoll Marine National Monument near American Samoa, expanding access to about half a million square miles; supporters say it will lower seafood costs and boost jobs, while conservationists and cultural practitioners warn it could harm fragile habitats and are preparing legal challenges. Local Fisheries Watch: The Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council will meet June 9–11 in American Samoa, with a key focus on South Pacific albacore tuna and ensuring the territory’s longline fleet gets a fair share under future regional catch limits. Deep-Sea Mining Concerns: As the U.S. moves toward seabed lease sales, experts say proposed rules for deep-sea minerals are outdated and lack strong oversight; the first lease process is slated for August in American Samoa, while local voices continue pushing for clearer, documented answers. Coast Guard Presence: USCGC Hollyhock returned to Honolulu after its first Operation Blue Pacific patrol, including a port call in Pago Pago where the crew serviced navigation aids and helped with a beach clean-up. Infrastructure Update: Port Administration American Samoa says construction of the new Ofu Wharf Terminal Building is progressing and remains on track for completion and handover in late 2027.

Pacific Fishing Policy: President Donald Trump signed a proclamation reopening parts of three U.S. marine national monuments to commercial fishing, including the Rose Atoll Marine National Monument near American Samoa, expanding access across about half a million square miles and framing it as a boost for U.S. seafood supply and fishing jobs. Oval Office Clash: During the signing, Trump attacked Sen. Lisa Murkowski as “terrible” and an “impediment,” turning the fisheries event into a political jab. Local Coast Guard Presence: USCGC Hollyhock returned to Honolulu after its first Operation Blue Pacific patrol, including a port call in Pago Pago where the crew serviced navigation aids and joined a beach clean-up. Deep-Sea Mining Watch: As the U.S. moves toward seabed lease sales, experts and former officials warn federal rules for deep-sea mining are outdated and lack strong oversight, with American Samoa’s August leasing timeline drawing fresh calls for clearer public answers. Regional Fisheries Meeting: The Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council meets in American Samoa to discuss South Pacific albacore tuna access and related management plans. Infrastructure Update: Construction of the new Ofu Wharf Terminal Building is progressing, with a target completion and handover in late 2027.

Deep-Sea Mining Watch: Legal experts warn U.S. rules for commercial deep-sea mineral leases are outdated and may weaken environmental review, as the DOI plans lease sales starting in American Samoa this August—coming amid local moratorium concerns and calls for clearer public answers. Local Infrastructure: Port Administration American Samoa says construction is progressing on the new Ofu Wharf Terminal Building, funded through a Commerce CDBG, with work on track for late-2027 handover. Coastal Planning: Gov. Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula says the Land Use Permit process has been streamlined via clearer guidelines and documentation requirements under the coastal management program. Fisheries & Science: The Western Pacific Fishery Council’s Scientific and Statistical Committee endorsed the 2026 American Samoa Bottomfish Stock Assessment Update and backed research priorities to improve Pacific Island stock tools. Public Safety: The U.S. Tsunami Warning Centre issued Pacific advisories after a 7.8 quake near the southern Philippines, listing American Samoa among areas under monitoring. Community & Youth: The Air Force Recruitment Team visited the Governor’s Office to discuss setting up a local recruiting presence for youth. Sports: American Samoa national softball roster for the Canada Cup includes Arizona Wildcats Tele Jennings and Sina Talataina.

Local Infrastructure Update: Port Administration American Samoa says construction of the new Ofu Wharf Terminal Building is progressing, with framing and interior work underway and a target completion/handover in late 2027. Governance & Permitting: The Land Use Permit application process has been streamlined, with clearer guidelines meant to prevent unauthorized development and speed up review. Public Safety Incident: Police arrested a man in Vaitogi after a reported machete threat during a domestic disturbance; charges include assault, attempted arson, and endangering a child. Environment & Community: The Department of Commerce Wetlands Program held a Wetlands Appreciation and Recognition event highlighting wetlands protection and traditional knowledge. Regional Fisheries: The Western Pacific Fishery Management Council meets June 9–11 in American Samoa to discuss South Pacific albacore access and other fishery science priorities. Deep-Sea Mining Debate: A local candidate is calling for documented answers on potential revenue and impacts as federal agencies move toward commercial deep-sea mineral leases. Coast Guard Presence: USCGC Hollyhock returned to Honolulu after its first Operation Blue Pacific patrol, including a port call in Pago Pago. Military & Youth: An Air Force Recruitment Team visited the Governor’s Office to discuss establishing a local recruiting presence. Church & Faith: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints encouraged a special fast tied to religious liberty ahead of the U.S. semiquincentennial. Disaster Watch: Tsunami advisories remain in effect across parts of the Pacific after a 7.8 quake near the southern Philippines, including American Samoa.

Tsunami Watch for the Pacific: After a 7.8 quake hit near Mindanao, the U.S. Tsunami Warning Centre issued advisories for many Pacific areas including American Samoa, urging coastal agencies to inform residents and stay out of the water where conditions are hazardous. Coast Guard in the Region: USCGC Hollyhock returned to Honolulu after its first Operation Blue Pacific patrol, logging more than 7,500 nautical miles and making port calls including Pago Pago, with law-enforcement support in Tonga. Local Safety Incident: Police arrested a man in Vaitogi after an alleged machete threat during a domestic disturbance, with charges including assault and attempted arson. Land Use Permits Streamlined: Gov. Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula says Land Use Permit guidelines were updated to prevent unauthorized development and speed up processing. Deep-Sea Mining Pushback: A local candidate urged the Deep-Sea Minerals Steering Committee to provide clear, documented answers on revenue, jobs, and environmental impacts as leasing timelines move toward August. Fisheries Update: The Western Pacific Council’s science panel endorsed the 2026 American Samoa bottomfish stock assessment and backed work to improve assessment tools for Pacific Island fisheries. Nutrition Funding: Rep. Uifa’atali Amata highlights $12.2 million for American Samoa nutrition support in the 2027 federal agriculture bill. Sports: American Samoa softball names Tele Jennings and Sina Talataina to Canada Cup roster; the territory’s national team roster was announced ahead of July play.

Coast Guard Patrol: USCGC Hollyhock returned to Honolulu after its first Operation Blue Pacific run, covering 7,500 nautical miles in 42 days with port calls including Pago Pago, and supporting law-enforcement and safety checks with Tonga’s Royal Navy. Deep-Sea Mining Watch: A new critique says proposed U.S. seabed mining rules are “bare bones” and could weaken environmental review and public input as leasing timelines move forward—an issue local leaders are urging the federal government to address with transparency. Tsunami Monitoring: After a 7.8 quake off the Philippines, U.S. tsunami advisories listed American Samoa among areas seeing forecast sea-level changes under 0.3 meters, with officials told to inform coastal communities and stay out of the water if conditions worsen. Local Fisheries Science: The Western Pacific Council’s Scientific and Statistical Committee endorsed the 2026 American Samoa bottomfish stock assessment update and backed research priorities tied to climate resilience. Congressional Funding: Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata highlighted House progress on 2027 federal nutrition support for American Samoa totaling $12.2 million, plus additional House movement on other local funding priorities. Court Update: The High Court set a July 8 evidentiary hearing for importers of seized vehicles from China, tied to whether they can extend the deadline to respond to seizure notices. Sports & Youth: American Samoa softball players Tele Jennings and Sina Talataina were named to the Canada Cup national team roster, and the territory’s national football federation hosted a dinner to push flag football development toward international competition.

Coast Guard Update: The crew of Cutter Hollyhock returned to Honolulu after a 42-day Operation Blue Pacific patrol, covering more than 7,500 nautical miles and making port calls in American Samoa, Tonga and Kiribati. Deep-Sea Mining Push: A U.S. bill would limit presidential power to ban commercial fishing in marine national monuments, while local concerns grow over fast-tracked commercial deep-sea mineral leases in American Samoa waters; a letter urges transparency and fact-based answers from federal officials. Local Fisheries Science: The Western Pacific Fishery Council’s Scientific and Statistical Committee endorsed the 2026 American Samoa bottomfish stock assessment update and urged better tools for Pacific Island fisheries, plus continued work on catch estimates and community impacts. Funding Watch: Rep. Uifa’atali Amata highlights $12.2 million for American Samoa nutrition support in the 2027 agriculture appropriations bill, and also reports House progress on multiple OIA and port-related priorities. Disaster Preparedness: After a 7.8 quake off the Philippines, tsunami advisories were issued across the Pacific, including American Samoa, with officials urging coastal communities to follow guidance and stay out of the water. Sports & Youth: American Samoa names Tele Jennings and Sina Talataina to the national softball team for the Canada Cup, and the territory’s football federation lays out plans for international flag football development.

Tsunami Watch for the Pacific: A 7.8 quake off Mindanao triggered tsunami advisories across the region, with American Samoa and Guam among areas where small sea-level changes (under 0.3m) were forecast and officials urged people to stay out of the water and follow local instructions. Deep-Sea Mining Push Under Fire: A new request for clarification and fresh criticism are aimed at the federal timeline for commercial deep-sea mineral leases in American Samoa waters, as NOAA and other agencies move forward with reviews and companies seek approvals. Local Governance & Democracy: A bipartisan congressional briefing in Washington focused on what “consent of the governed” means for U.S. territories, highlighting the gap between U.S. citizenship and full democratic rights for territorial residents. Sports & Youth: The American Samoa national softball team roster was announced for the Canada Cup, including Arizona Wildcats Tele Jennings and Sina Talataina. Community Updates: The DHSS launched the ASNAP EBT system to modernize food assistance, and the Port Administration updated plans for the Aunu’u Wharf reconstruction as design and environmental review continue.

Tsunami Watch in the Pacific: After a powerful 7.8 quake hit the southern Philippines, the U.S. Tsunami Warning Centre issued advisories for multiple Pacific areas, including American Samoa, warning of hazardous ocean conditions and urging coastal agencies to inform residents and follow local procedures. Local Infrastructure: Port Administration and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers continue work on the Aunu’u Wharf Reconstruction Project, with an enhanced design planned for both Alia passenger service and cargo landing craft, estimated at $3.7 million, targeting construction in late 2027 and completion before 2029. Elections & Representation: The Election Office urged eligible graduates to register to vote ahead of the midterm election, while Sandra King-Young officially registered her campaign committee with the FEC for Delegate. Ocean Policy & Politics: A congressional briefing in Washington focused on what “consent of the governed” means for U.S. territories, as advocates push for full democratic rights. Food Security Upgrade: DHSS launched the ASNAP EBT system to modernize benefits delivery for eligible recipients. Sports Development: The American Samoa National Football Federation hosted a dinner to promote an international flag football pathway toward Olympic qualification.

Fisheries & Community Loss: American Samoa and the wider Pacific mourn Manny Dueñas, a fearless advocate for island fishermen who fought for Guam, American Samoa, CNMI and Hawai‘i. Tsunami Safety: After a 7.8 quake off Mindanao, U.S. Tsunami Warning Centre advisories were issued across much of the Pacific, including American Samoa, with officials urging people to stay out of the water and watch for hazardous currents. Ocean Policy & Democracy: A bipartisan congressional briefing in Washington focused on “consent of the governed” for U.S. territories, highlighting that 3.6 million territorial residents still lack full democratic rights. Deep-Sea Mining Pushback: Guam signed a seabed mining ban, while American Samoa lawmakers and advocates continue pressing for moratoriums and stronger protections as NOAA and private companies advance seabed mineral steps. Local Infrastructure: Aunu’u Wharf Reconstruction Project updates confirm a new wharf and boat ramp design, with an Environmental Assessment underway and construction targeted for late 2027. Food Assistance Modernization: DHSS launched the ASNAP EBT system, moving benefits to an electronic format for eligible recipients. Elections & Voting: The Election Office urged new 18-year-old graduates to register for the upcoming midterm vote. Sports Development: ASNFF hosted a dinner to grow international flag football pathways, and American Samoa was awarded the WBSC Oceania 15U Women’s World Cup Qualifier in July.

Ocean Justice & Democracy in Territories: More than 400 ocean policy and environmental justice advocates met in Washington, D.C. for Upwell 2026, with Guam leaders pushing that territorial communities—like American Samoa—need a real say in decisions on conservation and deep-sea mining. Congressional Briefing on “Consent of the Governed”: A June 4 Senate briefing argued that about 3.6 million people in U.S. territories still lack full democratic rights, tying the issue to the Insular Cases and ongoing limits on self-determination. Deep-Sea Mining Pushback: American Samoa’s debate over seabed mining continues as NOAA advances a deep-sea minerals application review, while local voices urge that regulatory process isn’t proof of safety or benefit. Local Governance & Funding: Rep. Uifa’atali Amata says the House Appropriations Committee advanced bills that would raise American Samoa’s OIA Operations fund by $1 million to $30 million, add $3 million for ASCC, and include a federally funded report on Pago Pago Port improvements. Maritime Infrastructure: Port officials updated plans for the Aunu’u Wharf Reconstruction Project, including an Environmental Assessment and a $3.7 million rebuild to support both Alia passenger service and cargo operations. Elections & Campaigns: The Election Office urged eligible graduates to register to vote ahead of the midterm elections, and Sandra King-Young formally registered her campaign committee with the FEC for Delegate. Public Assistance Modernization: DHSS launched the ASNAP EBT system, moving food assistance to an electronic format for eligible recipients. Sports & Community: ASNFF held a dinner promoting international flag football and Olympic pathways, while American Samoa was awarded host status for the WBSC Oceania 15U Women’s Softball World Cup Qualifier in July.

Territorial Democracy: A bipartisan congressional briefing in Washington, D.C. tackled what “consent of the governed” means for U.S. territories, arguing 3.6 million Americans—including in American Samoa—still lack full democratic rights. Congressional Funding: Rep. Uifa’atali Amata says the House Appropriations Committee advanced four key priorities for American Samoa, including a $1 million boost to the OIA Operations fund, $3 million for ASCC, and a federally funded report on Pago Pago Port improvements. Maritime Infrastructure: With rough seas limiting boat access, Port Administration updated plans for the Aunu’u Wharf Reconstruction Project—replacing the wharf and ramp, supporting both Alia passenger service and cargo landing craft, with construction targeted for late 2027 to before 2029. Elections & Voting: The Election Office urged new 18-year-old graduates to register for the midterm elections, while Sandra King-Young officially registered her Delegate campaign committee with the FEC. Public Assistance: DHSS launched the ASNAP Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) system, modernizing food assistance delivery for eligible recipients. Sports Development: ASNFF hosted an informational dinner to grow international flag football and build toward Olympic qualification. Local News: Police charged a man in a domestic violence case after an alleged assault reported by a cousin; another arrest followed an alleged domestic violence investigation involving FB-related communications.