President Biden swept the Democratic contests on Super Tuesday, except for one notable outlier — American Samoa.
The American territory, situated in the South Pacific Ocean, threw its support behind an unexpected Democratic candidate named Jason Palmer, a 52-year-old businessman from Baltimore.
In the territory’s caucus, Palmer secured 51 out of 91 ballots cast, while Biden received 40, as reported by the local party. While this upset won’t impede Biden’s path to securing his party’s nomination, it does mark the second occasion where American Samoa has opted against backing him.
In the 2020 Democratic primaries, billionaire Michael Bloomberg secured his only victory in American Samoa. He garnered 175 votes, with Tulsi Gabbard coming in second with 103 votes. Bernie Sanders earned 37 votes, and Biden trailed in fourth place with 31.
Following Tuesday’s caucus, Palmer expressed gratitude to American Samoa in a statement on X.
“I am honored to announce my victory in the American Samoa presidential primary. Thank you to the incredible community for your support. This win is a testament to the power of our voices. Together, we can rebuild the American Dream and shape a brighter future for all.”
Six delegates were up for grabs in the U.S. territory, with the vote split between Palmer and Biden.
Reflecting on his unexpected win, Palmer admitted to being taken aback by his narrow 11-vote victory.
“I found out that I had won because my phone started blowing up with friends and campaign staffers texting me,” Palmer recounted to The Associated Press.
Interestingly, Palmer has never visited American Samoa.
“I have been campaigning remotely, conducting Zoom town halls, engaging with people, and listening to their concerns and priorities,” he explained.
Palmer entered the presidential race in November 2023.
According to his campaign website, he acknowledges having “very little chance of winning,” but he wants his campaign to focus on introducing new “ideas, solutions, and changing the conversation.”
He has also personally loaned $500,000 to fund his campaign.
“You can’t take the money with you when you die,” he remarked. “But you can change the world while you’re here.”
Residents of U.S. territories are eligible to participate in primaries but lack official representation in the Electoral College.
