Guam voters headed to the polls Tuesday with concerns about the island's cost of living, education, public safety, and the future decisions in this year's general election.
In interviews with KPRG News at polling locations across the island, residents shared what motivated them to vote and what they hope the island's next elected leaders will address.
For some, rising living expenses remain a major concern. Voters pointed to increasing housing costs, rent and utility bills, along with the need for more employment opportunities and livable wages.
Yona resident Evan San Nicolas said balancing employment and household expenses remains a challenge, regardless of whether someone works in the public, private, or nonprofit sector.
“Some important issues to me are the cost of living,” San Nicolas said. “Ultimately, I am a homeowner, so also tying in employment. Seeing, are we able to find a good job? In every sector of employment, it is such a task to be qualified for it, and the timing of everything too, also blends in towards when our bills are due, that kind of thing.”
Education was another recurring concern, particularly among parents who said the island's children depend on stronger support for schools and teachers.
Cherish Keaunui said her children were her primary motivation for voting. She also raised concerns about the lack of support for teachers and the rising costs of basic living expenses.
“Education is a really big thing. With the lack in support that I’ve seen for teachers, that’s what really pushed me,” Keaunui said. “And then also today with like a lot of the rising costs and living, you know, rent, utilities and stuff, it’s been a big burden. And I know its a big thing on everybody. But today, I really needed to vote because my kids rely on it.”
Public safety and drug abuse were also among the issues voters want the next administration to address.
Mark Alviz said he wants to see greater attention given to the island's safety, including efforts to address Guam's drug problem. “I mean, just how it’s gotten just so bad over the last how many years, just there needs to be change there,” Alviz said. He also expressed concern about Guam's strategic position as a military location and the importance of having leaders who prioritize the island's security. “So I just want to make sure when voting, having the right people that put that as a priority is one quality that I’m looking for,” Alviz said.
Other residents raised concerns about government services and accountability.
Vince Flores of Agana Heights pointed to challenges facing the education system and hospital, as well as government spending, procurement, and transparency. He said the government needs to find ways to improve services and create more opportunities for residents to own businesses and build their livelihoods on Guam.
“The important issues are education, the education process, and the system right now is always hurting,” Flores said. “It’s like, how is that happening? And other services within the agencies, and we just have too much overhead. They got to think outside the box and provide some assistance somehow, someway.”
For some voters, the election also carried concerns about the future of the island's indigenous population.
Dededo resident and veteran Joe Leon Guerrero said he hopes more CHamoru people will remain on Guam or return home to support their communities. He expressed concern about residents leaving the island and the need to ensure the local population continues to thrive.
“The reason why I’m voting is because our people are dying out and leaving the island,” Leon Guerrero said. “Outsiders are coming in, and one day they’re going to take over if people keep neglecting from voting. So please vote.”
While voters identified different priorities, their responses reflected a shared expectation that the island's next leaders address the challenges affecting residents' everyday lives.
As Guam begins its next election cycle, voters say casting their ballots is one way to make their voices heard on the issues that matter to them.