Terlaje announces gubernatorial bid, picks Perez as running mate

Therese Terlaje and Sabina Perez

By Pacific Island Times

Sen. Therese Terlaje today announced her bid for governor with Sen. Sabina Perez as her running mate, bringing the third team to the Democratic Party's primary on Aug. 1 and vowing to push an anti-corruption platform.

“Today I am formally announcing that I am running for governor, answering the compelling call by many in our community to fight for Guam in these extremely challenging times," Terlaje said. "I am grateful for the trust you have placed in me as senator and pledge to continue to work hard to earn your trust as governor."

The Terlaje-Perez team is entering the three-way race with Lt. Gov. Josh Tenorio and his running mate, Sen. Tina Muna Barnes; and Sen. Joe San Agustin who is running with former senator Dwayne San Nicolas.

"I am proud to be joined by Sen. Sabina Flores Perez (Cabesa, Gollo) as my running mate for lieutenant governor. Sabina brings a record of strong leadership, policy expertise, and a thoughtful, disciplined approach to long-term, systemic solutions," Terlaje said.

"As a former teacher, she is committed to building a sustainable island where our children can thrive,” said the former speaker.

Perez said the team stands against corruption and promises to "bring immediate change to our government, and urgent relief for the everyday person."

“I am excited for the change that our team can bring. Now more than ever, Guam needs leadership that stands up for what is right, acts with integrity, and makes decisions based on what is good for our people” Perez said.

Terlaje and Perez are both known as advocates of CHamoru people, culture, land and environment.

An attorney by profession, Terlaje was first elected in 2016 to serve in the 34th Guam Legislature, where she was elected vice speaker of the Guam Legislature. She has been reelected in every election.

Perez began her senatorial term in the 35th Guam Legislature after being elected in November 2018. She is a former teacher at Simon San Sanchez High School, and former diabetes researcher at University of California, San Francisco.

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