There’s just 88 days until the August 3 primary election. So far, 11 democrats and 14 republicans have filed in hopes to be in the 38th Guam Legislature.

The Guam Election Commission estimated the primary, to include early voting, to cost some $400,000.

But, would it save money to advance the senatorial candidates to the November general?

GEC Executive Director Maria Pangelinan said, “Then it would have to be that we push both sides to the general because neither side has 15 candidates.”

Pangelinan said the answer to who will be on the ballot will be up to the commission. 

“If what appears on the ballot are only those that are contested or who have competition, we would have to look at the cost again. As you may know, right now our challenge is finding a venue for early voting. We are in the process now for issuing a request for quotation for just the primary for early voting,” added Pangelinan. 

Meantime, Democratic Party of Guam Chairperson Tony Babauta told KUAM, “We believe that what democrats fight for in the Legislature, the Congress, and in our villages is what our community wants; a strong economy, an efficient government, improving facilities, continuing opportunities for entrepreneurs and freedom of choice. We have quality candidates who more accurately represent the People of Guam and we encourage the electorate to learn about every democrat working to earn your vote.”

He added, “We will rely on the GEC to review their current authorities and convey whether or not they have the ability to cancel a primary. we're reviewing the code as well.”

Republican Party of Guam Chairperson Shawn Gumataotao said, “So we are really excited despite the fact that we have 14 candidates. But these are 14 very quality candidates who are committed to bring common sense pieces of legislation forward in terms of our senators to win that majority that we believe is absolutely critical.” 

Gumataotao is in the senatorial race as well, echoing that they will let the GEC decide the ballot.

Gumataotao added, “Whether or not that decision is to move forward or not, it really sits with the Election Commission. As I am aware, they are looking into whether they can or cannot either stop a primary or not. That’s their role in these elections.”

The GEC is scheduled to meet on Thursday.