Former Guam governors endorse Ada-Calvo gubernatorial team

Vice Speaker Anthony Ada and Edward J. Calvo have officially launched their bids for governor and lt. governor, respectively. Photo courtesy of Ada-Calvo campaign.

By Pacific Island Times News Staff

Riding on a strong political machinery backed by two former Republican governors, Vice Speaker Anthony Ada and Edward J. Calvo have officially launched their gubernatorial team.

"Guam is at a turning point. Our hospital is on life support. Our tourism industry, once the engine of our economy, is barely surviving. Businesses are closing and the cost of living, from rent to utilitis, is through the roof," Ada said.

"Are we in a better state today than we were seven years ago? As we can see, the challenges before us will grow deeper," he added.

The Ada-Calvo team is seeking the Republican Party's nomination in next year's primary. Ada is expected to run against Speaker Frank Blas Jr., who is predicted to run with Dr. Mike Cruz.

Former governors Eddie Calvo and Felix Camacho endorsed the Ada-Calvo team during their candidacy launch at the Hyatt Regency Guam.

According to the campaign team, the private political gathering drew a crowd of nearly 700, consisting of family members, friends and supporters.

"So far, Ada-Calvo is the only Republican team that has announced.  If another team, such as Dr. Mike Cruz and Speaker Frank Blas, decides to run, then as a former Republican governor and statesman, I will attend campaign events on both sides," Camacho said, responding to the Pacific Island Times' request for comment.

"After the primary, I, along with others, will help to unify the Republicans in support of the winning team. There are close relationships on both sides, and I respect that very much," he added.

Eddie Calvo said Ada and EJ Calvo represent the next generation of leaders who can lift the quality of life on Guam and "the best team for reigniting the 'Guamanian dream.'"

"I've been encouraging EJ in the way in which I can for him to run for elected office," he said of his nephew, who served as chairman of the Guam Economic Development Authority during his administration.

Ada served as a Cabinet member under both the Camacho and Calvo administrations.

“This campaign is not about me. It is about all of us. It is about the single mother working two jobs to keep her family afloat. It is about the

fisherman who wants to pass on his traditions to his children," Ada said.

"It is about the small business owner who believes in the future of Guam but needs a government that works as hard as they do,” he added.

Ada sought support from Guam's Republicans, Democrats, Independents, and those who have never voted before. "Guam deserves leaders who will put people over politics, and politics over division,” he said.

The Ada-Calvo team listed their priorities, which include strengthening families, tackling the rising cost of living, revitalizing the economy, addressing crime, fixing Guam Memorial Hospital, improving schools and sports facilities, expanding opportunity and restoring public trust in government.

EJ Calvo echoed Ada’s call for unity, emphasizing the need for leadership that restores trust and builds opportunity for Guam’s next generation.

"I stand here because of the love of my family and the people and the island that has raised me. And tonight I stand here before you because I received the call that changed my life: a call from Sen. Tony Ada," EJ Calvo said.

"One cup of coffee and one conversation about our island's struggles and its possibilities. That conversation sparked a fire in me, a belief that if we step up together, we can do something truly special for our island and our people," he said.

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