President Biden Falls Short in American Samoa Democratic Caucus
Unexpected Victory for Jason Palmer
According to reports from the American Samoa Democratic Caucus, President Joe Biden faced an unexpected setback as he fell short of victory in the territory. Jason Palmer, a previously unknown candidate, emerged as the winner, garnering 51 of the total 91 ballots cast. President Biden secured 40 votes, as per the results announced by the local party.
In an interview, Palmer expressed his surprise at winning, stating, “I found out that I had won because my phone started blowing up with friends and campaign staffers texting me.” This victory marks a significant milestone for Palmer, who had never visited American Samoa prior to the caucus.
Virtual Campaigning
Palmer’s campaign strategy centered around remote campaigning, utilizing platforms like Zoom to conduct virtual town halls and engage with voters directly. By connecting with people and listening to their concerns, Palmer aimed to represent the aspirations of the American Samoan community.
Minimal Impact on Biden’s Nomination
While Palmer’s win surprised many, political experts believe that it is unlikely to hinder President Biden’s journey towards securing the Democratic nomination. American Samoa only offered six delegates in the caucus, demeaning the impact of the outcome. As a result, both Palmer and Biden earned three delegates from the contest.
American Samoa, a small archipelago in the South Pacific with a population of under 50,000, holds a minimal valve in terms of electoral representation. However, unique victories have occurred in this territory before, as evidenced by billionaire Michael Bloomberg’s sole triumph during the 2020 Democratic primaries.
A Fresh Voice for American Samoa
Jason Palmer, a 52-year-old Baltimore resident, brings a diverse background in various businesses and nonprofits, with a particular focus on technology and education. His campaign message resonated with voters who seek a progressive, 21st-century-minded approach to leadership, differentiating Palmer from President Biden.
Notably, Palmer loaned his campaign over $500,000 from his personal funds, underlining his commitment and belief in the importance of effecting change. “You can’t take the money with you when you die,” Palmer insisted, “but you can change the world while you’re here.”
American Samoa and the Electoral College
Residents of American Samoa usually participate in primaries, but they lack representation in the Electoral College, which decides the overall outcome of the presidential election. However, the territory remains an essential political symbol, highlighting the diverse nature of the Democratic voter base.
Follow the latest updates and results from Super Tuesday on our website. We provide live coverage of the primary elections in 16 different states and one territory, ensuring you stay informed throughout this crucial event.
