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Boundary Delimitation
BD001
Delimitation of constituencies
Question: Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Revised Constitution of American Samoa, Art.2(ii)
Verified: 2017/08/18
BD002
Question: The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:
Answer(s):
a . The legislature (national/subnational)
Comments: The constitution outlines the boundaries of the various electorates. After the two houses of the legislature have passed the amendments, the amendments need to be submitted to the voters at the next general election.
Source: Revised Constitution of American Samoa Article 2 Legislature Section 2 and Article 5 Miscellaneous Section 3.
Verified: 2017/08/18
BD003
Criteria for drawing boundaries
Question: On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
Answer(s):
b . Respecting natural barriers
Comments:
Source: Revised Constitution of American Samoa, Art.2(ii)
Verified: 2017/08/18
BD004
Question: If population is a criterion, which population figure is used?
Answer:
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Revised Constitution of American Samoa Article 2 Legislature Section 2
Verified: 2017/08/18
BD005
Body responsible for drawing boundaries
Question: The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:
Answer(s):
a . Legislature (1st chamber) b . Legislature (2nd chamber)
Comments: Both Chambers
Source: Revised Constitution of American Samoa, Art.2(ii)
Verified: 2017/08/18
BD006
Question: What statistical or other reasons trigger the redrawing of electoral constituency boundaries?
Answer(s):
k . Boundaries redrawn every____period of years
Comments: k. Boundaries redrawn every 5 years..
Comments. Reapportionment is required to be undertaken at least every 5 years, however the boundaries have never been changed.
Source: Revised Constitution of American Samoa Article 2 Legislature Section 2
Verified: 2017/08/18
Electoral Systems
ES001
Head of State
Question: How is the Head of State selected?
Answer(s):
a . Head of State is the Head of Government e . Elected by electoral college or committee
Comments: The President of the United States of America is the Head of State for the unincorporated US territory. The President is elected by an electoral college.
Source: Revised Constitution of American Samoa Preamble.
Constitution of the United States of America: Art. 2:1:2
Verified: 2017/08/18
ES002
Head of Government
Question: How is the Head of Government selected?
Answer:
f . Other
Comments: The President of the United States of America is the Head of Government for the unincorporated US territory, and is elected by an Electoral College.
Source: Revised Constitution of American Samoa Preamble.
Constitution of the United States of America: Art. 2:1:2
Verified: 2017/08/18
ES003
President
Question: Does the country have a president?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Revised Constitution of American Samoa Preamble
Verified: 2017/08/18
ES004
Number of Chambers
Question: The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
Answer:
b . Two chambers
Comments: The national legislature consists of a Senate and House of Representatives.
Source: Revised Constitution of American Samoa: Art. 2:1
Verified: 2017/08/18
ES005
Electoral System (Chamber 1)
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
a . Plurality (FPTP)
Comments: The number of persons to be elected receiving the highest number of votes in any representative district shall be declared to be elected or in the case of territory-wide election of the Governor and Lieutenant Governor, and the Delegate-at-Large, the person or team receiving the highest number of votes in the territory shall be declared to be elected.
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.0805.
http://www.asbar.org/Newcode/Title%2006.htm#a805
Verified: 2017/08/18
ES006
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 2 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
a . Plurality (FPTP)
Comments:
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.0805.
Verified: 2005/02/16
ES007
Question: If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?
Answer:
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.0805.
Verified: 2005/02/16
ES008
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?
Answer(s):
c . Regional/provincial level
Comments:
Source: Revised Constitution of American Samoa Article 2 section 2.
Verified: 2005/02/16
ES009
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?
Answer(s):
c . Regional or provincial level
Comments:
Source: Revised Constitution of American Samoa Article 2 section 2.
Verified: 2005/02/16
ES010
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 1 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Revised Constitution of American Samoa Article 2 section 2
Verified: 2005/02/16
ES014
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 1?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: American Samoa Code Title 6 Elections Chapter 8, 6.0805.
Verified: 2005/02/16
ES015
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 2?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: American Samoa Code Title 6 Elections Chapter 8, 6.0805.
Verified: 2005/02/16
ES016
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 1?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: American Samoa Code Title 6 Elections Chapter 8, 6.0805.
Verified: 2005/02/16
ES017
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 2?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: American Samoa Code Title 6 Elections Chapter 8, 6.0805.
Verified: 2005/02/16
ES018
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
a . At fixed intervals (specify length)
Comments: Term of Office for the Senate is 4 years. Elections occur at fixed intervals every even numbered year beginning on the first Tuesday following the first Monday in November and ending not later than 4 weeks later.
Source: Revised Constitution of American Samoa Article 2, Section 5
Verified: 2005/02/16
ES019
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 2, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
a . At fixed intervals (specify length)
Comments: Term of Office for the Representatives is 2 years. Elections occur at fixed intervals every even numbered year beginning on the first Tuesday following the first Monday in November and ending not later than 4 weeks later.
Source: Revised Constitution of American Samoa Article 2, Section 5.
Verified: 2005/02/16
ES020
Question: Regarding Chamber 1 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
a . Voting takes place on one day
Comments:
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections Chapter 7 6.0701
Verified: 2005/02/16
ES021
Question: Regarding Chamber 2 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
a . Voting takes place on one day
Comments:
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections Chapter 7 6.0701
Verified: 2005/02/16
Legislative Framework
LF001
Status of Electoral Law
Question: What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Part of Constitution b . Separate legislation d . Regulations or administrative rules
Comments:
Source: Revised Constitution of American Samoa, American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections Chapter 7 6.0701,
Verified: 2017/08/18
LF002
Question: What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?
Answer:
a . January 2000 or later
Comments:
Source: American Samoa Bar Association summary of 2003 enactments
Verified: 2017/08/18
LF003
Electoral Law covers
Question: The national electoral law covers:
Answer(s):
a . National elections
Comments:
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.0101
Verified: 2017/08/18
LF004
Compulsory/voluntary voting
Question: Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
Answer(s):
a . Voting is voluntary
Comments:
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections Section 2 Article 6.0210; International IDEA Voter Turnout Website (http://www.idea.int/vt/)
Verified: 2017/08/18
LF007
Electoral Disputes Agency(ies)
Question: What are the agency(ies) responsible for the first level of formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Judiciary d . Other
Comments: D. Other - Board of Registration
The Board of Registration is the first level of disputes, however the High Court becomes the first level of disputes under the following conditions
* An elector's qualifications are challenged after they vote
* Challenges that relate to causes that would cause a difference in the election result.
Source: High Court, American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.0901, 6.0902, 6.0903.
Board of Registration, American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.0223 (a) (d).
Verified: 2017/08/18
LF008
Question: If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?
Answer(s):
a . President c . Judiciary
Comments: The Governor, with the ascent of the Senate, appoints the Board of Registration, High Court judges are appointed by the Secretary of the Interior.
Source: High Court, American Samoa Code Annotated Title 3 Judiciary 3.1001 (a).
Board of Registration, American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.0201 (a).
Verified: 2017/08/18
LF009
Question: Who has the right to submit cases to the person or agency(ies)which settles formal disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Candidates c . Voters
Comments:
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.0223 (a), and 6.0902
Verified: 2017/08/18
LF010
Question: What body(ies) is the final appellate authority for formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
c . Superior Court
Comments: The superior court is called the High Court.
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.230
Verified: 2017/08/18
LF011
Question: Which body(ies) proposes electoral reforms?
Answer(s):
a . Election Management Body b . Legislative Committee
Comments:
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.0106 (a). Revised Constitution of American Samoa Article 2 The Legislature Section 1.
Verified: 2017/08/18
Electoral Management
EM002
Responsibility of national EMB
Question: Does the national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
Answer(s):
a . National level
Comments:
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.0101
http://www.asbar.org/Newcode/Title%2006.htm#a101
Verified: 2017/08/18
EM003
Question: The national electoral management body reports to:
Answer(s):
f . Other
Comments: F. Other - EMB is independent
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.0103.1 (e).
Verified: 2017/08/18
EM004
EMB budget determined by
Question: The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:
Answer(s):
g . Other
Comments: Other, Governor
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.0103.1 (e).
http://www.asbar.org/Newcode/Title%2006.htm
Verified: 2017/08/18
EM005
EMB expenditures controlled by
Question: The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
Answer(s):
c . The legislature
Comments: The Governor shall direct the preparation and administration of the territorial budget. The Governor places all recommendations towards budgetary issues to the Legislature for consideration and approval.
Source: Constitution: art. 2:1.
American Samoa Code Annotated, Title 10, Ch.5. (10.0502)
Verified: 2017/08/18
EM006
Term of EMB members
Question: The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
Answer:
b . For a specified number of years
Comments: For an initial term of 4 years, and every 3 years thereafter.
There are a number of permanent civil servants who assist the Chief Electoral Officer.
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.0103.1 (b)
Verified: 2017/08/18
EM012
Electoral Management model
Question: What is the Electoral Management model?
Answer:
c . Mixed
Comments: There is established in the executive branch of the American Samoa Government a permanent, independent election office. The election office is headed by the Chief Election Officer, who shall be appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Legislature.
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated, Title 6, Ch.1 (6.0103.1)
Verified: 2017/08/18
EM013
Number of EMB members
Question: The EMB is composed of:
Answer:
f . No information available
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2017/08/18
EM014
Membership based on
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected on the basis of their:
Answer:
b . Expertise
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2017/08/18
EM015
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected by:
Answer(s):
c . Executive e . Legislature
Comments: The election office is headed by the Chief Election Officer, who shall be appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Legislature.
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated, Title 6, Ch.1 (6.0103.1)
Verified: 2017/08/18
Voter Education
VE001
Information campaigns performed by
Question: Who conducts information campaigns for national elections (informing where, when and how to register and/or vote)?
Answer(s):
a . National Electoral Management Body
Comments:
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.0104
Verified: 2017/08/18
VE002
Frequency of voter education programs
Question: At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
Answer:
c . Other
Comments: Periodically available online
Source:
Verified: 2017/08/18
VE003
National civic education
Question: Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
Answer(s):
a . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2017/08/18
VE004
Question: What types of voter education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Poster/ Billboard campaigns b . Media advertisement
Comments:
Source: NA
Verified: 2017/08/18
VE005
Question: What types of civic education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Poster/ Billboard campaigns b . Media advertisement
Comments:
Source: unknown
Verified: 2005/02/16
VE006
Question: Special voter education programs were developed at the most recent national elections for:
Answer(s):
a . Disabled
Comments: Training is provided to polling staff
Source: Unknown
Verified: 2017/08/18
Voter Registration
VR001
Voting age
Question: What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
Answer:
c . 18
Comments:
Source: Constitution of American Samoa, Art.2:7
American Samoa Code Annotated, Title 6, Ch2 (6.0211)
Verified: 2017/08/18
VR002
Other voting requirements
Question: Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Citizenship b . Period of Residence
Comments: Electors must be a United States National, be 18 years of age or older on the day of the election and have lived in Samoa for a period of two years to be eligible to vote.
Source: Constitution of American Samoa: art. 2:7
Verified: 2017/08/18
VR003
Question: What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?
Answer(s):
a . Criminal Incarceration b . Previous Conviction d . Mental disability
Comments: For A. and B to be enforced the criminal violation must be of felony level.
Source: Revised Constitution of American Samoa Article 2 Section 7
Verified: 2017/08/18
VR004
Authority responsible for voter registration
Question: Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
Answer:
a . Central Government Department (specify)
Comments: Election Office
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated, Title 6, Section 1 (6.0201)
Verified: 2017/08/18
VR005
Question: What is the registration method for national elections?
Answer:
b . Voters register
Comments:
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.0214
Verified: 2017/08/18
VR006
Question: How frequently is the voters register updated?
Answer:
a . Continuously
Comments:
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.0214.
Verified: 2017/08/18
VR007
Question: What methods are used to compile and update the voters register?
Answer(s):
e . Appearance by voter at registration office h . Mobile election registrar j . Other
Comments: There is an exchange of data between government departments.
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.0214.
Verified: 2017/08/18
Parties and Candidates
PC001
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
g . No information available
Comments: There are no official parties in American Samoa, although there is a trend for various candidates to have strong links with either the US Democratic or Republican parties.
Source:
Verified: 2017/08/18
PC002
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 2)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
g . No information available
Comments: There are no official parties in American Samoa, although there is a trend for various candidates to have strong links with either the US Democratic or Republican parties.
Source: Electionworld.org: Elections around the world available http://www.electionworld.org/americansamoa.htm
Verified: 2017/08/18
PC003
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship d . Residence j . Other
Comments: The candidate must be 30 years of age or more, have lived in America Samoa for 5 years or more, be the registered Matai of a Samoan Family who fulfills their obligations as required by Samoan custom in the country that they have been elected.
Source: Revised Constitution of American Samoa, Art.2, Section 3 A Senator shall; (a), (b), (c) and (d).
Verified: 2017/08/18
PC004
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 2)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship d . Residence
Comments: The candidate must be 25 years of age or more, and have lived in American Samoa for 5 years or more
Source: Revised Constitution of American Samoa Article 2 The legislature Section 3 A Representative shall; (a), (b), (c) and (d).
Verified: 2017/08/18
PC005
Question: What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship c . Country of birth d . Residence j . Other
Comments: The Head of State/Government is the President of the United States the following apply; The candidate must be 35 years of age or more, be a natural born citizen or a citizen of the United States, have been a resident of the USA for 14 years or more, and have not served for 2 terms of office as president of the USA.
Source: USA Constitution, Article 2, Section 1, and USA Constitution amendment 22.
Verified: 2017/08/18
PC006
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?
Answer(s):
a . Current criminal incarceration d . Naturalization k . Mental health problems
Comments: The imprisonment or conviction must be of a felony level to apply.
Source: Revised Constitution of American Samoa Article 2 The legislature Section 7.
Verified: 2017/08/18
PC007
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
c . Criminal record g . Holding of government office
Comments: The president will be removed from office on impeachment for, and conviction of Treason, Bribery, or other high crimes and Misdemeanours
Source: USA Constitution, Article 2, Section 4.
Verified: 2017/08/18
PC008
Independent candidates
Question: Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
Answer(s):
c . In legislative elections (Chamber 1)
Comments: Only in reference to Legislative elections
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated, Title 6 (6.0301)
Verified: 2017/08/18
PC009
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
c . No registration requirement
Comments:
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.0301
Verified: 2005/02/16
PC010
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
a . Signature requirement (specify) b . Deposit requirement (specify)
Comments: 25 registered voters from the election district that the candidate is seeking election from must nominate them.
$300 deposit required.
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.0301
Verified: 2017/08/18
PC011
Question: If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
a . Signature requirement (specify) b . Deposit requirement (specify)
Comments: Governor elections
$500
Source: Unknown
Verified: 2017/08/18
PC012
Public funding of parties
Question: Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
Answer(s):
a . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2017/08/18
PC013
Question: If political parties receive direct/indirect public funding, when do they receive this?
Answer(s):
d . Not Applicable
Comments:
Source: Unknown
Verified: 2017/08/18
PC014
Question: If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:
Answer(s):
e . Not Applicable
Comments:
Source: Unknown
Verified: 2017/08/18
PC015
Question: What is the basis of the public funding?
Answer(s):
f . No information available
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2017/08/18
PC016
Question: If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?
Answer(s):
e . Not Applicable
Comments: Individuals are entitled to private funding.
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.1703 (b)
Verified: 2017/08/18
PC017
Question: Are political parties entitled to private funding?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: Individuals are entitled to private funding.
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated, Title 6, (6.1703)
Verified: 2017/08/18
PC018
Question: If political parties are entitled to private funding, for what period?
Answer(s):
d . Not Applicable
Comments: Campaign financing occurs throughout the electoral cycle for the various individuals looking to be elected.
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.1703
Verified: 2017/08/18
PC020
Question: Which of the following candidate financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
a . Public disclosure of candidate contributions received b . Public disclosure of candidate expenditure
Comments:
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.1718 and 6.1719
Verified: 2017/08/18
PC021
Question: Who is responsible for administering and enforcing party income/funding regulations at national level?
Answer(s):
b . Regulated body specially created for this purpose
Comments: Campaign Spending Commission
Source: American Samoan Administrative Code Title 3: Election Contributions and Expenses.
Verified: 2017/08/18
Vote Counting
VC001
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Single ballot (all registered parties listed)
Comments:
Source: Unknown
Verified: 2017/08/18
VC002
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
a . Single ballot (all registered parties listed)
Comments:
Source: Unknown
Verified: 2017/08/18
VC003
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
a . Single ballot (all registered parties/candidates listed)
Comments:
Source: Unknown
Verified: 2017/08/18
VC004
Votes are sorted/counted at
Question: Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
Answer:
a . The polling stations
Comments: The legislation allows for the initial count to be undertaken in a central polling place, but traditionally this first count occurs at the local polling stations.
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated, Title 6 (6.0802)
Verified: 2017/08/18
VC005
Question: What procedures are used in the initial count?
Answer(s):
b . Preliminary count of all ballots in ballot box c . Tally of voters who voted d . Number of ballots in box reconciled against number of voters e . Number of ballots reconciled against ballots initially received (minus spoilt and unused) f . Each ballot paper held up for public scrutiny, with name of party/candidate called out loud g . Single tallying as voters are being called out j . Sorted into piles according to individual party/candidate l . Counted by hand
Comments:
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.0801 8.0803.
Verified: 2017/08/18
VC006
Question: Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
Answer(s):
e . National level
Comments:
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.0805
Verified: 2017/08/18
VC007
Question: At what levels are seats allocated?
Answer(s):
b . District level
Comments:
Source: Revised Constitution of American Samoa Article 2 Legislature Section 2
Verified: 2017/08/18
VC008
Question: How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?
Answer(s):
b . By telephone
Comments:
Source: Unknown
Verified: 2017/08/18
VC009
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what is transported?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Unknown
Verified: 2017/08/18
VC010
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what security measures are used?
Answer(s):
k . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Unknown
Verified: 2017/08/18
VC011
When are ballots recounted?
Question: Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
Answer(s):
g . No information available
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/23
VC012
Question: If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC013
Question: If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?
Answer(s):
b . An individual candidate
Comments:
Source: Unknown
Verified: 2017/08/18
VC014
Question: If recounted, who conducts the recount?
Answer(s):
a . National Election Management body
Comments:
Source: Unknown
Verified: 2017/08/18
VC015
Question: Are preliminary results announced?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.0702 and 6.0802
Verified: 2017/08/18
VC017
Question: Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.0805
Verified: 2017/08/18
VC018
Question: How long after the close of polls is the certified results publicly announced? (if there is no legal requirement enter the average time)
Answer:
b . days:
Comments: The period of 7 days is to allow for challenges to the election result to be lodged with the High Court
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.0806 and 6.0903
Verified: 2017/08/18
Media and Elections
ME003
Question: Which of the following types of television stations are present at a national level in your country?
Answer(s):
b . Government owned c . Privately owned
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2017/08/18
ME004
Question: Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers are present at a national level in your country?
Answer(s):
b . Government owned c . Privately owned
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2017/08/18
ME037
Criteria for allocating free broadcast time
Question: What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?
Answer(s):
h . No information available
Comments: There are no political parties on American Samoa
Source: Information collected at PIANZEA workshop in December 2006.
Verified: 2017/08/18
ME059
Television debates
Question: Are televised debates between candidates or party representatives normally conducted?
Answer(s):
c . No
Comments: No debates but speeches are made on television.
Source: Information collected at PIANZEA workshop in December 2006.
Verified: 2012/05/23
ME062
Blackout period for release of opinion poll results.
Question: What is the blackout period, if any, during which results of pre-election opinion polls may not be released to the public?
Answer:
g . No information available
Comments:
Source: Information collected at PIANZEA workshop in December 2006.
Verified: 2017/08/18
ME080
Question: Is there a maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2017/08/18
Direct Democracy
DD005
Citizens' Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Citizen’s Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2017/08/18
DD007
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Recalls at national level?
Answer:
c . No information available
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2017/08/18
DD008
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for mandatory referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
a . Constitutional
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD010
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for citizens' initiatives at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD100
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for an agenda initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD101
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a recall?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD103
Question: What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD104
Question: What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a recall?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD107
Question: Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in an initiative?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD108
Question: Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in a recall?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD011
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for agenda initiatives at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD110
Question: What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for an initiative?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD111
Question: What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for a recall?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD113
Question: Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in an initiative?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD114
Question: Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in a recall?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD116
Question: What is the period during which these controls apply for an initiative?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD117
Question: What is the period during which these controls apply for a recall?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD119
Question: Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for an initiative? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD012
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for recalls at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD120
Question: Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for a recall? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD122
Question: Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for an initiative? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD123
Question: Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for a recall? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD015
Question: Who is responsible for managing the administration of direct democracy mechanisms at the national level?
Answer(s):
a . Government (specify department)
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD016
Question: Does this agency/department also manage the administration of national elections?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD017
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
a . Yes, in all regions/states/provinces
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD018
Question: Are optional referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD019
Question: Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD020
Question: Are agenda initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD021
Question: Are recalls currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD022
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
a . Yes, in all municipalities/districts/communes
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD023
Question: Are optional referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD024
Question: Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD025
Question: Are agenda initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD026
Question: Are recalls currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD027
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are mandatory at the national level?
Answer(s):
a . Constitutional amendments e . Conflict between constitutional organs g . Civil service h . Taxes and public expenditure commitments
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD028
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are optional at the national level?
Answer(s):
a . Constitutional amendments
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD029
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of referendums at the national level?
Answer(s):
c . Transfer of authority to international bodies
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD031
Question: Who can initiate a referendum at the national level?
Answer(s):
a . Government d . Legislative majority e . Registered electors
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD032
Question: Who is responsible for drafting the mandatory referendum question?
Answer(s):
b . Independent electoral commission d . Legislature e . Registered electors
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD033
Question: Who is responsible for drafting the optional referendum question?
Answer(s):
b . Independent electoral commission d . Legislature e . Registered electors
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD045
Question: Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the citizens' initiative process at the national level?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD046
Question: Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the agenda initiative process at the national level?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD047
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of a citizens' initiative at the national level?
Answer(s):
l . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD048
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of an agenda initiative at the national level?
Answer(s):
l . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD049
Question: Who may propose the registration of a citizens' initiative? Please specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD050
Question: Who may propose the registration of an agenda initiative? Please specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD051
Question: What material is necessary to accompany an application for registration?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD052
Question: Who determines the title of a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD053
Question: Who determines the title of an agenda initiative?
Answer:
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD054
Question: Which, if any, of the following disqualify a proposed title of an initiative?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD055
Question: Which services are provided by the agency/department responsible for the administration of direct democracy mechanisms before an initiative can be published?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD056
Question: Under what circumstances is an initiative checked for constitutionality or legality?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD057
Question: If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, who is responsible for undertaking it?
Answer(s):
f . Other (specify)
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD058
Question: If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, when does this happen?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD059
Question: Which institutions, if any, are given an opportunity to propose an alternative to proposals contained in a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD060
Question: At which stage in the initiative process, if at all, can alternative proposals be made?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD061
Question: What happens when there is a valid alternative proposal?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD062
Question: When an initiative proposal and an alternative proposal are put to the vote on the same day, what choices does the voter have?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD063
Question: Who decides the final ballot text?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD064
Question: Once an initiative is qualified for the ballot, the vote on it takes place:
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD065
Question: Which of the following individuals/positions may be subject to the recall mechanism?
Answer(s):
k . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD066
Question: What are the grounds upon which a recall may be launched?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD068
Question: If a recall qualifies for the ballot, when is it put to the vote?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD069
Question: When does the election to replace an individual who has been recalled take place?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD071
Question: Can an individual who is the subject of a recall stand on the ballot for his/her own replacement?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD078
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for a citizens' initiative has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD079
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for an agenda initiative has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD082
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD083
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for an agenda initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD085
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for recall has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD086
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a recall?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD089
Question: Where can proposals for a citizens' initiative be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD090
Question: Where can proposals for an agenda initiative be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD091
Question: Where can proposals for a recall be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD094
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD095
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for an agenda initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD096
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a recall?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
DD099
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Filivaa M. Mageo, Deputy Director of Elections, Territorial Election Office
Verified: 2007/01/08
Voting Operations
VO002
Question: Is there a code of conduct for election officials?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Unknown
Verified: 2005/02/16
VO003
Electors vote at
Question: Where can electors vote?
Answer(s):
a . At a specified polling station in the locality where they are registered at national elections
Comments:
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated, Title 6 (6.0701).
Verified: 2017/08/18
VO004
Voting outside the country is permitted for
Question: Who can vote from outside the country?
Answer(s):
c . Citizens outside the country (including those on vacation) d . Members of the armed forces e . Students f . Diplomatic staff
Comments:
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated, Title 6 (6.1101)
Verified: 2017/08/18
VO005
Locations for voting outside of the country
Question: If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
Answer(s):
c . Special polling stations e . By mail
Comments:
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated, Title 6 (6.1103)
Verified: 2017/08/18
VO006
Question: Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?
Answer:
b . Yes
Comments:
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.1107
Verified: 2017/08/18
VO007
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), how may they do so?
Answer(s):
a . At special advance polling centers b . By mail d . At mobile polling stations
Comments:
Source: A, American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.1107.
B and D, American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.1103
Verified: 2005/02/16
VO008
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), specify who:
Answer(s):
b . Disabled persons d . People in hospitals e . People in prison f . Other
Comments: Other:
· If absent from America Samoa on election day Military personnel, government employee or a student;
· if temporarily absent, voters on vacation and work related travel.
· If absent from district due to; confinement in public institution, confinement at home from illness or physical disability, any religious belief doctrine, or standard that prevents a voter from attending the poll
· Employment as an election official.
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.1101
Verified: 2017/08/18
VO009
Question: Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: American Samoa Code Annotated Title 6 Elections 6.0702
Verified: 2017/08/18
VO011
Voting method
Question: How do electors cast their votes?
Answer(s):
a . Manually marking of ballots
Comments: While not written into the legislation, it is clear from court proceedings that an elector makes their mark on the ballot paper, and only the first number, or preference counts. Source Mulitauaopele v. CEO, 27 A.S.R.2d 56.
Source: Mulitauaopele v. CEO, 27 A.S.R.2d 56.
Verified: 2017/08/18
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