Republican senators have ousted Sen. James Moylan as the minority leader of the 36th Guam Legislature. He has been replaced by Sen. Chris Duenas.
The Republican caucus issued a statement announcing the leadership change "to allow for greater focus on collective legislative initiatives and to support those who have expressed interest in higher office."
Moylan, the most vocal critic of the administration, is rumored to be gunning for the gubernatorial seat next year, but the senator denied it.
"I don’t have any plans to run for governor at this time, and while people are encouraging it, my focus is my work," Moylan said. "Also the decision was made within the caucus."
In a statement, Duenas said, “There is much work to be done and as the Republican minority, we fully support our party members in their goals for higher office; but we also need our leadership in the Guam Legislature to be focused on the work and issues at hand. As our aspirations, needs and priorities evolve, we must remain focused on ensuring that we are doing what we were elected to do; serve our island and its people,” Duenas said.
“We would like to take this opportunity to thank Senator James 'Jim' Moylan for all of his efforts to ensure that everyone has an equal footing at the table, and I want to assure our dear people of Guam that I will maintain the good work he has done," he added.
Smarting from his colleagues' action, Moylan said, "While I believe that the reasons which lead to the decision were unwarranted, I respect the will of the majority within the caucus."
The leadership switch was effective March 18.
"I serve the people of Guam, and I will continue to serve with honor as I did in the previous legislature, and as I have since I took the oath of office on Jan. 4, 2021. We have many serious issues to focus on, and these latest developments will in no manner, hinder our efforts. Let’s Get Guam Moving," Moylan said.