American Samoa’s political system is unique within the United States, shaped by our culture, traditions, and history. The Territory operates under a non-partisan election system at the local level, with a bicameral legislature consisting of the House of Representatives and the Senate. Members of the House are elected by popular vote every two years, while Senators are selected through the fa‘amatai system, reflecting the central role of traditional leadership in Samoan governance.

At the federal level, American Samoa is represented by a non-voting Delegate to the United States Congress, who advocates on behalf of the Territory’s interests but does not vote on the House floor. Despite this limitation, political parties play an essential role in shaping national engagement and representation.

The American Samoa Democratic Party plays a critical role in connecting the Territory to the national political process. The Party organizes presidential primaries and caucuses and sends a delegation to the Democratic Party’s quadrennial national Party conventions, ensuring that the voices of American Samoans are represented on the national stage.