The defeated challenger in American Samoa's gubernatorial run-off election says he believes the re-elected governor and his lieutenant will make the improvements the territory needs.
The governor, Togiola Tulafono and Lieutenant Governor, Faoa Ipulasi Sunia garnered about a thousand more votes than the challengers, Utu Abe Malae and Nua Mailo Saoluaga in Wednesday's run-off election.
But Utu says he's happy with the result.
"My message to my supporters is that I have learned a lot about our people here and their needs and I hope that by sharing that message with the public I'm sure that Togiola and Faoa will play their part and make the necessary improvements."
Utu Abe Malae says his committee did a wonderful job in a short time and on limited funds.
Governor Togiola Tulafono begins his second term in office in January.
