2024 Gubernatorial Forum Program
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FORUM SCHEDULE
5:30 p.m. Doors open to public (Lee Auditorium)
6:00 p.m. Call to Order by MC
6:05 p.m. Opening Prayer - Public Defender Asaua Fuimaono
6:10 p.m. Welcome Remarks - ASBA President Mitzie Jessop-Taase
6:15 p.m. Introduction of Candidates and Moderator
6:20 p.m. Moderator announces rules and procedures
6:25 p.m. - 7:45 p.m. Opening Statements and questions to candidates
7:45 p.m. Candidates closing statements
7:55 p.m. Closing remarks and prayer by MC
8:00 p.m. End of Forum
CANDIDATE BIOGRAPHIES
Lemanu Palepoi Sialega Mauga – candidate for Governor
Lemanu, a traditional High Chief from Sa’ilele, was born in Nu’uuli and an ordained Deacon for the Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa. He is married to Ella Gaea Perefoti Failautusi, a retired U.S. Army Sergeant First Class with 21 years of service. He was previously married to the late Pohakalani D. Bailey Mauga. He is a father of four sons and seven grandchildren.
Lemanu holds a Master’s in Public Administration from San Diego State University, a Bachelor’s in Political Science from the University of Hawaii, and an Associate's from the American Samoa Community College. He attended Samoana High School and Matafao Elementary School before graduating from Waianae High School.
His military career began in 1978 as an enlisted Marine, and he later became a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army Reserve while studying at UH-Manoa. He retired after 22 years but was recalled for specialized service during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He ultimately retired again in 2007 with 23 years of service.
Subsequently, he held multiple positions within the American Samoa Government, including Director of Property Management, Governor's Office Military Liaison, Senator for Sua County #2, where he chaired several key Senate Committees, and Lieutenant Governor of American Samoa.
La’apui Talauega Eleasalo Va’alele Ale – candidate for Lieutenant Governor
La’apui served as Attorney General from 2014 to 2020. He held the chief title "Talauega" from his maternal family in Nua and Se’etaga, and now the To’oto’o title "La’apui" from his paternal family in Fitiuta, Manu’a.
La’apui graduated from Marist Brothers’ Elementary School and High School. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Truman State University in 1990 and a Juris Doctor from Drake University Law School, graduating with distinction in 1994. He was a Legislative Assistant to U.S. Senator Daniel K. Inouye of Hawaii and a Judicial Law Clerk to Chief Judge James S. Burns of the Hawaii Intermediate Court of Appeals.
For 17 years, La’apui was a lawyer at Faegre & Benson in Minneapolis, becoming a partner in 2003. He built a successful practice that catered to Fortune 500 companies, non-profits, and public entities. He is also noted as one of the first Samoan partners in a major U.S. law firm.
La’apui was General Counsel for the Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa from 2018 to 2021 and is currently the Vice President of the Marist Brothers Crusaders Alumni Association. He is married to Marian McGuire, a licensed attorney, and they have four children.
Pula T. I. Nikolao Pula – candidate for Governor
Pula’ali’i Nikolao Iuli Tuiteleleapaga Pula, the youngest of twelve children, hails from the villages of Leone, Utulei, Fagatogo, and Pago Pago. His father was instrumental in establishing the public school system in American Samoa, while his mother instilled values of faith, honesty, and hard work. Pula is married to Lois Phillips-Pula, Ph.D., a retired Georgetown University professor.
Pula’s educational journey began in Catholic schools, leading to his valedictorian graduation from Marist Brothers High School in 1974. He pursued higher education at Menlo College in California and Brigham Young University in Utah, interrupted by a missionary service in Upolu, Savaii, and Tutuila. He later completed his studies at George Mason University in Virginia.
Professionally, Pula’s career spanned roles in the American Samoa Fono Legislature, the U.S. Senate, and the House of Representatives. He served as a legislative assistant and staff director on various committees before joining the Department of Interior’s Office of Insular Affairs (OIA) in 1993. Pula became the first Pacific Islander of Samoan ancestry to serve as OIA Director, a role he held for 20 years. His tenure included periods as Acting Assistant Secretary of Insular Affairs, where he was praised for his bipartisan leadership. Pula also chaired several key committees and represented U.S. interests in international Pacific organizations. He retired in 2022, receiving numerous accolades for his contributions to American Samoa and the broader Pacific region.
Pulu Ae Ae Jr. – candidate for Lieutenant Governor
Pula Ae Ae Jr. is a dedicated Army veteran who has committed himself to serving the people of American Samoa. With 20 years of honorable military service, including tours during Operation Desert Storm, Pulu demonstrated exceptional bravery and resilience. His military experience has equipped him with strong leadership skills and a deep understanding of duty, which he now applies to his public service endeavors.
After his military career, Pula returned to American Samoa, where he began building relationships and addressing local issues from the grassroots level. He served as the Mayor of Pago Pago for five years, earning the trust and support of his community. His reputation for integrity and action led to his election to the House of Representatives, where he served for ten years. Known as a “straight shooter” who only feared God, Pulu became a respected figure, advocating for transparency and accountability in government.
Pulu’s commitment to public service continued as he was appointed Director for the office of Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata Radewagen, serving faithfully for ten years. His dedication to addressing the concerns of his constituents led him to run for Lt. Governor alongside gubernatorial candidate Pula’alii Nikolao Pula. With his strong foundation of integrity, resilience, and genuine passion for public service, Pulu Ae is poised to offer a fresh perspective and a clear vision for the future of American Samoa, driven by his commitment to honesty and hope.
Vaitautolu Fa'afetai Talia I'aulualo - candidate for Governor
Vaitautolu is a visionary leader renowned for his extensive experience as a legislature and in executive roles within both government agencies and financial institutions. His exemplary track record in strategic management and financial stewardship is evident through his notable tenure as the Executive Director of the American Samoa Employee’s Retirement Fund, where he successfully led the organization for two consecutive four-year terms. Under his guidance, the fund not only grew but also achieved remarkable sustainability, enhancing the financial security of its beneficiaries. A proud native of Manu’a, Vaitautolu embodies the values of Samoan heritage, culture, and community resilience. His commitment to his family and village is reflected in the esteemed titles of Vaitautolu and I’aualualo, signifying his standing within the community. Vaitautolu aspires to continue his work to instigate positive, lasting changes across American Samoa, advocating for initiatives that empower and uplift the community while honoring his cultural roots. His leadership is driven by a vision that prioritizes the well-being of our people, ensuring a brighter and more prosperous future for generations to come.
Maefau Dr. Mary Lauagaia Taufete'e - candidate for Lieutenant Governor
Dr. Taufete’e is a distinguished leader dedicated to fostering progress in American Samoa, with a strong educational background and extensive experience in legislature and in leadership roles. Her expertise in organizational leadership has been demonstrated through vital roles such as the former Executive Director of the American Samoa Arts Council and four successful terms as the elected District 12 representative in the House of Representatives. Additionally, her position as a faculty member at ASCC showcases her commitment to education and mentorship within the community.
Deeply rooted in the culture and values of American Samoa, Dr. Taufete’e embodies the principle of “tautua,” exemplifying her unwavering support for her church, families, and villages. She is a passionate advocate for women's and children's empowerment, striving to create equitable opportunities for all. Her initiatives center on promoting inclusivity and preserving the rich cultural heritage of American Samoa, making her a standout candidate for Lt. Governor. With a vision that harmonizes community values with progressive policy, Dr. Taufete’e aims to uplift and empower the people of American Samoa.
