Pula’ali’i Nikolao Pula's official portrait as governor. Image credit: Government of American Samoa
Pula’ali’i Nikolao Pula has been the governor of American Samoa since January 2025. Before his term as governor, he worked in many public service roles, such as on Capitol Hill and for the Department of the Interior. Pula grew up as a Catholic and carried his beliefs with him throughout his career. This is an overview of Pula’ali’i Nikolao Pula’s background, accomplishments, and influence. It also aims to understand the influence that Pula’s religion and experience have on his actions as governor.
Early life
Pula’ali’i Nikolao Pula was born on December 31, 1955, in American Samoa. After graduating as valedictorian of Marist Brothers High School, he earned his undergraduate degree from Menlo College in California. He continued his education at Brigham Youth University in Utah, serving a mission in Upolu, Savai’i, and Tutuila during his junior year. Ultimately, he completed his education at George Mason University in Virginia.
Pula’ali’i Nikolao Pula campaigning in May 2024.
Political career
Upon graduating from George Mason, Pula worked on Capitol Hill from 1981 to 1992. He was a special assistant for Senator Daniel K. Inouye (D) of Hawaii, legislative assistant to Congressman Fofo IF Sunia (D) of American Samoa, and staff director of the Subcommittee on Public Building and Grounds of the House Committee on Public Works and Transportation. After his time on Capitol Hill, Pula worked in the Department of the Interior (DOI) Office of Insular Affairs (OIA). From 1999 to 2002, he served as Acting Director of OIA, and in 2002, Pula was appointed by David B. Cohen as Director of OIA. Pula continued this role until he retired in 2022. After his retirement, he announced his bid for governor of American Samoa in November 2024 and assumed office in January 2025.
However, Pula’s governance has been somewhat controversial amongst the people of American Samoa. On July 2, a Facebook page with the title “Remove Pula 2025” appeared with a petition to remove Pula in the name of “honest governance and transformative leadership that truly serves the public good.” The petitioners cite an unjust treatment of American Samoa Government employees, weak leadership, and lack of empathy as reasons for his possible removal.
Ideology
Pula was an independent for most of his political career. He was seen as a politician who was able to take a bipartisan approach. According to David B. Cohen, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Interior, “Nik has a great amount of credibility with Republicans and Democrats alike, both on Capitol Hill and in this administration.”
Yet, after years of being an independent, Pula announced that he would be joining the Republican Party on December 23, 2024. He still identifies with this party today. It is worth highlighting that Pula is Catholic, citing that he “received a calling from the Lord to come and serve the territory” when announcing his candidacy for governor.
Major accomplishments
In 2002, Pula became the first Pacific Islander of Samoan ancestry to be the DOI’s Director of Insular Affairs. This position was usually a political appointee—a government official appointed for the benefit of the party in power. In spite of that, Pula was an independent at the time, making his appointment critical since it broke the precedent.
Future prospects
On July 28, 2025, Pula announced his first budget bill. He spoke regarding the termination of federal pandemic relief programs, such as the American Rescue Plan Act and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, stating that his administration will commit to using the remaining $400 million in funds to “stimulate the local economy and generate indirect revenues.”
Based on his long history as a government official, it can be seen that Pula is dedicated to serving the public. Nevertheless, American Samoa seems to be frustrated with Pula’s lack of leadership and transparency as governor. His religious beliefs influence his actions as a politician by affecting his decision to run for governor. Pula’s extensive experience in the OIA may have helped him navigate federal affairs as governor.
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Amber Jiao is a student at Poolesville High School in Poolesville, Maryland. She is passionate about public policy and social justice. In her free time, Amber enjoys rock climbing, visiting art museums, and exploring the city with her friends. At Pasquines, she is a Political Affairs Intern Correspondent.
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