Tenorio: We must stay prepared
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – November 10, 2025
Hagåtña, Guam — Acting Governor Josh Tenorio today welcomed news that the United States Senate has advanced legislation to reopen the federal government, expressing relief that critical safety-net programs may soon be restored just as families begin preparing for the holidays.
“Across the nation and here at home, families have faced weeks of anxiety as the federal government shut down and critical programs were put on hold,” said Acting Governor Tenorio. “If this measure passes as expected, many of our people will finally see a return to normalcy—federal workers will receive their pay, safety-net benefits will resume, and families will regain the stability they deserve.”
The Acting Governor emphasized that Guam did not wait for Washington to act. When the shutdown began, the Leon Guerrero-Tenorio Administration moved quickly to protect local families by ensuring food and nutrition benefits continued uninterrupted for children, seniors, and low-income households.
“When the federal government was unable to act, we did what Guam has always done: take care of our neighbors in need,” he said. “We made sure that our children had food to eat, our families had access to help, and our community did not go without. I am proud of the swift action and compassion shown by our government employees and nonprofit partners.”
Acting Governor Tenorio said that if the Senate’s measure becomes law, Guam will begin transitioning back to federal program operations, easing the strain on local funds used to sustain services during the shutdown.
“This federal action means our local safety net will be reinforced, not replaced,” he added. “We are grateful to see Washington moving to restore what our people need most—stability, dignity, and peace of mind.”
While this is a positive step, Acting Governor Tenorio cautioned that the compromise measure only funds the federal government through January 30, 2026. He noted that although some programs may receive funding for the rest of the fiscal year, others could again face uncertainty early next year if Congress fails to reach a long-term agreement.
“This is not the end of our vigilance,” the Acting Governor said. “We must stay prepared. Our administration will continue monitoring developments closely and remain ready to help our people wherever possible.”
The Acting Governor encouraged residents to remain patient as federal agencies begin reopening and to stay connected to local support networks until all federal operations are fully restored.
“As we enter the holiday season, I want our people to feel hope,” the Acting Governor said. “Guam’s strength is our unity, and together, we will continue to protect each other, no matter what challenges come from Washington.”
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