Republicans have flipped Guam’s governorship, with Republican Vicente “Tony” Ada defeating Democratic Sen. Therese Terlaje in Tuesday’s election. Ada and his running mate, Edward John “E.J.” Calvo, received 15,945 votes, or 51.45%, compared with 14,925 votes, or 48.15%, for Terlaje and her running mate, Sen. Sabina Perez, according to unofficial results from the Guam Election Commission.

The victory ends eight years of Democratic control under outgoing Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero, who was barred from seeking another consecutive term because of term limits. Ada’s approximately 1,020-vote margin gives Republicans control of the governorship heading into 2027. The results remain unofficial pending certification.

Ada, a Republican member of the Guam Legislature, campaigned on issues including healthcare, the island’s hospital project and federal funding. During an October debate, he called for removing federal funding limits that apply to Guam’s Medicaid program. He also questioned the direction of the current administration’s plans for a new hospital, an issue that has been a major point of disagreement among island leaders.

The election also carried significance for social conservatives. Ada co-sponsored and voted for Guam’s Heartbeat Act, legislation that would prohibit most abortions after a fetal heartbeat is detected. The measure passed the legislature but was vetoed by Leon Guerrero. Terlaje opposed the legislation while serving in the legislature.

The outcome marks a shift in Guam’s political leadership after Democrats held the governorship for two consecutive terms. Republicans also appeared positioned to make gains in the incoming Guam Legislature, although the final balance of seats depends on the remaining vote count and certification.

Guam is a U.S. territory, and its residents are American citizens, although they cannot vote in the presidential general election while living on the island. The governorship plays a central role in local administration, including healthcare, infrastructure and the management of federal programs.

Ada will take office in January 2027. The election results represent a Republican gain in a territory where Democrats have controlled the governor’s office since 2019.