Guam - It was a busy afternoon for the Guam Election Commission today as some familiar names filed their candidacy hoping to enter the political arena. There was a batch of new blood present today at the GEC, filing their candidacy in hopes of filling one of 15 seats in the 32nd Guam Legislature.

Filipino Community of Guam president and former Department of Labor director Leahbeth Nahalowaa sets out to create and provide more opportunities for the people of Guam under the Democratic ticket. "My focus would be livelihood programs this way we can not only allow people to be self-sufficient, but at the same time create jobs and build our economy," she said.

Republican candidate Guam Parole Board chair Michelle Taitano meanwhile says she may be a newcomer but feels working in the business community, public service and private sector has equipped her with what's needed to overcome the challenges many are facing. "Currently we're experiencing some tough times and if we work collaboratively then we can make it better, make our island better and come up with good solutions," she stated.

Also running under the Republican ticket is former professional Major League Baseball player, sports director and former president of Kontendas Gym Brant McCreadie. He says lawmakers need to reconnect better with the people, do a better job of listening and stop telling people what they need and instead start listening to them.  "Without those three components, it's hard to move this island forward, so I want to implement a teamwork-through-leadership perspective to move this island forward. You can't do it alone whether you're a Democrat or a Republican - we have to work together in order to be successful."

McCreadie believes there needs to be an infusion of energy in the Legislature, something Democratic candidate and Guam Education Board member Joe San Agustin agrees with. It's his second time running and wants to make sure education issues, public safety and public health are addressed up front. "I think the time has come, they need new blood, they need fresh ideas, they need people that are more focused, people that are willing to step up to the plate and I'm willing to do that," he said.

The deadline to file candidacy for the senatorial, mayoral, congressional delegate and public auditor race is on Tuesday, July 3.