Local Republican Party set to host their annual Coleman Eisenhower Dinner

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The Republican Party of American Samoa (RPAS) is set to host its premier annual event — the Coleman Eisenhower Dinner — this evening at the DDW Restaurant in Utulei. The gathering brings together party members, supporters, and community leaders to celebrate conservative values and pay tribute to one of the territory’s most revered statesmen.

In an exclusive interview, RPAS Vice Chairman Michael McDonald, one of the event’s organizers, emphasized the significance of the occasion.

Born on December 8, 1919, in Pago Pago, Peter Tali Coleman pursued higher education at Georgetown University, where he earned both his Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degrees. He later served with distinction in the U.S. Army during World War II, attaining the rank of Captain.

Coleman made history in 1956 when he was appointed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower as the first native-born Samoan Governor of American Samoa, serving until 1961. This milestone followed his earlier appointment as the territory’s first Attorney General from 1955 to 1956.

Tonight’s dinner not only commemorates Coleman’s groundbreaking achievements but also reaffirms the Republican Party’s commitment to leadership, service, and the values he championed throughout his distinguished career.

"So we use the month of October to commemorate and remember that historic event because it is also the birth month of President Eisenhower who was born on October 14, 1890 in Denison, Texas," McDonald explained. "We don't want to forget our history and our past and so we do this every year, and that is why it is called the Annual Coleman Eisenhower Dinner."

 (RPAS) Vice Chairman Michael McDonald confirmed that Congresswoman Uifaatali Amata Coleman Radewagen is scheduled to attend the Coleman Eisenhower Dinner on Friday evening, despite her demanding schedule in Washington, D.C., where she continues to advocate for the interests of the people of American Samoa.

McDonald emphasized that the event is open to everyone, regardless of political affiliation — even Democrats. He noted that the core values of the Republican Party — God, family, and country — closely align with traditional Samoan values.

In addition to honoring the legacy of Governor Uifaatali Peter Tali Coleman, McDonald revealed that the program will include a special moment to remember the work and impact of Charlie Kirk, the late conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, whose influence reached many young conservatives across the nation.

On September 13, 2025, the Republican Party of American Samoa (RPAS) held a solemn vigil to honor the life and legacy of Charlie Kirk, co-founder of Turning Point USA, who was assassinated on September 10, 2025 during a public event in Utah. The ceremony, organized by RPAS Vice Chairman Dora Leiato Meredith, drew a crowd of supporters — many of them young people — who gathered at South Pacific Water Sports in Utulei to pay tribute in a heartfelt gathering that mirrored similar vigils held across the nation.

RPAS Vice Chairman Michael McDonald expressed his deep admiration for Kirk and condemned the graphic public streaming of the assassination on social media.

He also announced that Dora Leiato Meredith will speak on Charlie Kirk’s legacy during a dedicated segment of the upcoming Coleman Eisenhower Dinner.

The dinner promises to be a meaningful evening of fellowship, remembrance, and celebration of conservative values, honoring both the legacy of Governor Uifaatali Peter Tali Coleman and the enduring impact of voices like Charlie Kirk.

Live music will be provided by Ulale & Friends Band, with special performances by the Ieru Girls and Fa‘atamali‘i Productions. And of course, indulge in a delicious menu expertly crafted by Chef Paul and his talented crew.

Tickets are available now at South Pacific Watersports & Fitness. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. this evening at DDW Restaurant, Utulei.