American Samoa Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata has reaffirmed her opposition to seabed mining in the waters surrounding the territory, saying her position has remained consistent despite claims by others to speak on her behalf.
“My opposition to seabed mining in waters surrounding American Samoa has not changed,” Amata said in a statement, stressing that “no one else speaks for her,” despite characterisations and assumptions made by Republicans or Democrats.
“”This is my seventh public statement on this issue, because of its importance, and because various posts, comments, or statements sometimes say they describe my position – they do not. I was clear from the beginning, first that I stand with the people and then with further statements of opposition as we learned more.
“I submitted opposition comments to the Interior Department, and in the congressional record speaking out at congressional committee hearings. I remain opposed and consistent,” said Congresswoman Amata.
She said her position reflects the views of majority of the people of American Samoa.
“In this position, I am confident that I represent most of our people on this, which is the job of the House representative. In fact, the founders of the United States purposely designed the House of Representatives through the Constitution to be the people’s house and most directly represent the will of the people, more so than any other aspect of the federal government,”” Amata concluded.
“I take that responsibility seriously. I represent our people, and most of them are opposed to it,” said Amata.
