FOR the first time in years, there are more Republican candidates running in the primary election for senator than Democrats.

To date, there are at least 25 Republicans and 15 Democrats who picked up packets personally or had a committee get a packet.

However, Democratic Party of Guam spokesman Carlo Branch said everything is speculative until the declaration date has passed.

“There’s a lot more involved than just turning in paperwork. A lot of people pick up packets for the purpose of attempting to discern interest but the real test is who actually files for candidacy,” Branch said.

“You see a lot of people picking up draft packets. This indicates to me that there’s a lot of exploration, but I don’t know if there’s going to be a lot of execution,” he added.

Branch also likens the situation to that of buying a vehicle.

“Just because you go see a car, doesn’t mean you’re going to put a downpayment and purchase it,” Branch said.

Republican Party chairman Mike Benito had a different take and said the GOP has a very strong slate this year.

“I think a lot of people felt this year is an important time to make changes in the Legislature. We have a real opportunity to do the military buildup right. I think a lot of the Republican candidates, especially the new faces, want to ensure Guam’s economy grows,” Benito said. “Many things have changed since the original announcement of the buildup and we want to ensure we can get this done right this time.”

Benito added there are a lot of GOP candidates who run private businesses and have thrown their hat in the ring, including Brant McCreadie and Mike Limtiaco. Then there is Department of Youth Affairs Director Adonis Mendiola and Bureau of Statistics and Plans Director Tommy Morrison.

The packet submission deadline for candidates running in the primary for the 32nd Guam Legislature, non-voting Delegate to Washington, Mayor/Vice Mayor, and Office of the Public Auditor is 5 p.m., July 3 at the Guam Election Commission. The primary election is on Saturday, Sept. 1.

Meanwhile, Guam Election Commission Executive Director Maria Pangelinan is asking each party to submit the names of precinct officials by the June 15 deadline. Each party received 145 applications for those interested. For more information, call the GEC offices at 477-9791.