The deadline to file for the 2026 primary election in Guam is just two days away and while candidates continue to prepare their packets, voters are already sharing what they want to see from those looking to run. Those considering a run for office are running out of time to make it official and voters say they’re paying attention.

Dededo resident Thomas Tamares said, "Mainly the democratic race. I’ve seen its kind of spicy on their side lately so I’m kind of eyeing them lately, compared to the republicans." He says he’s still thinking about who he wants to represent his voice and what candidates will bring to the table.

Tamares added, "With all the news I keep reading about this government, I’m looking forward to the new elections and seeing what the new contenders can give to the island and its people, especially after Sinlaku and its recovery. I’m hoping it will become a faster and better response for the people."

That recovery effort following Super Typhoon Sinlaku is top of mind for many, like Yigo resident Rose Cruz. "Actually, we’re not thinking about this election now. We’re too busy after this storm we had." When asked if she feels like our current leaders are doing enough, or is it time for change," she replied, "I think it’s time for change."

As for key issues that matter to voters and non-voters alike, Toto resident Melvin Pangelinan said, "The prison. Work on the prison. It’s overcrowded. It’s understaffed." And Brian Flinn from Barrigada shared, "Cleaning up the streets of all the abandoned vehicles. Cleaning up Guam and making it beautiful again. That’s what I would say. I’d find someone who wanted to do that."

And as potential candidates finalize their decisions, some voters say they’re still waiting to see who will step up. Mangilao's Edward Aguon said, "Just hoping for a better election this year."

As of Wednesday afternoon, some 35 candidates filed their packets with the Guam Election Commission. The vast majority of that number, so far, are 28 candidates vying for one of 15 seats in the legislature.

A hot race to watch is the gubernatorial race where there are currently three teams under the democratic ticket going head-to-head, and two republican teams in the primary.

In the order filed, for governor and lieutenant governor are democrats Joe San Agustin and Dwayne San Nicolas, republicans Tony Ada and EJ Calvo, republicans Frank Blas, Jr. and Mary Okada, democrats Therese Terlaje and Sabina Perez, democrats Josh Tenorio and Tina Muna Barnes.

With six of them sitting senators, that means six seats in the Guam Legislature will go to newcomers. In the meantime, independents Jeff Pleadwell and Charlie Hermosa have yet to file as of Wednesday afternoon.

With the cut-off day quickly approaching, voters have a message for anyone still on the fence. "Think about the people first," suggested Tamares. "Put yourself in their shoes before you think about doing other stuff."

The deadline is this Friday at 5pm. The GEC is expected to see a rush of candidates filing in the next two days.