Overview
The year 2018 in American Samoa encompassed the territory’s political incumbency, participation in United States federal elections, and routine socioeconomic developments. As an unincorporated territory of the United States located in the South Pacific, American Samoa’s annual activities are documented in the context of its local government, its representation in the U.S. Congress, and its demographic and economic trends.
Incumbent Officeholders
- Governor: Lolo Matalasi Moliga (served 2013–2021)
- Lieutenant Governor: Lemanu Palepoi Sialega Mauga (served 2013–2021)
- Delegate to the United States House of Representatives: Amata Coleman Radewagen (Republican), re‑elected in the 2018 midterm elections
Political Events
United States Congressional Election
- In the November 6, 2018, United States midterm elections, American Samoa elected its non‑voting delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives. Incumbent Amata Coleman Radewagen secured a second term with a majority of the popular vote, continuing her representation of the territory in Congress.
Local Governance
- No territorial elections for governor or lieutenant governor took place in 2018; the next scheduled general election was in 2020. The territorial legislature (the Fono) continued its regular sessions, addressing budgetary, infrastructural, and public service matters typical of its biennial calendar.
Demographics and Economy
- Population: Estimates by the U.S. Census Bureau placed the resident population of American Samoa at approximately 55,000 individuals in 2018, reflecting a modest decline from previous years due to net out‑migration.
- Economic Indicators: The territory’s gross domestic product (GDP) remained anchored by tuna canning, government services, and small‑scale retail. Unemployment rates hovered around 5–6 % throughout the year, consistent with prior annual figures.
Public Health and Education
- The American Samoa Department of Health continued its routine public‑health programs, including vaccination campaigns and monitoring of communicable diseases. No major disease outbreaks were recorded in 2018.
- The Department of Education oversaw the operation of public schools, with enrollment numbers stable relative to prior years.
Natural Events
- The Pacific region experienced several tropical cyclones in 2018; however, American Samoa did not suffer direct hits from significant storms during the calendar year. Routine weather monitoring and preparedness activities continued under the jurisdiction of the National Weather Service and local emergency management agencies.
Infrastructure and Development
- Ongoing infrastructure projects included upgrades to the Tafuna Airport runway and improvements to the island’s road network, funded through a combination of local appropriations and U.S. federal assistance.
- Telecommunications enhancements, notably the expansion of broadband internet service, progressed under agreements with private providers and the Federal Communications Commission’s Rural Digital Opportunity Fund.
Cultural Activities
- Annual cultural events, such as the Teuila Festival (held in late September), were conducted in 2018, showcasing Samoan traditions, music, dance, and cuisine. These festivals contribute to both community cohesion and modest tourism revenue.
Summary
The year 2018 in American Samoa was characterized by political continuity, participation in the U.S. midterm elections, and steady socioeconomic conditions. No extraordinary natural disasters or major policy shifts occurred, allowing the territory’s government and communities to maintain routine operations and cultural observances.