What is your name?

Amelia Siamomua

Tell us more about yourself.

I was born in Nuku'alofa, Tonga, in the Pacific. I am a development economist by profession. I graduated from the University of the South Pacific in Fiji with majors in economics and politics. My family migrated to Atlanta in 2005, and I have been a resident of DeKalb County for more than 19 years. I am a devoted military mother and grandmother with more than 38 years in an international career. I continue to serve the public as a freelance international consultant on sustainable development for enhancing good governance and socio-economic development in developing countries throughout the world.

What office are you running for?

State Senator, District 40

What is your party affiliation?

Republican

Attach a photo of yourself

Attach your resume or CV.

Where did you go to school?

- Tonga High School, Nuku'alofa, Tonga, 1972-1979 - University of the South Pacific, Fiji, 1981-1985 - Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University, Cambridge, Mass., 2004

Provide the link to your campaign website.

https://ameliaforgeorgia.com and https://ameliakspasefika.com/a-new-voice/

What is your job/occupation?

Development economist consultant

What city/neighborhood do you live in?

Northcrest, which is a suburban residential subdivision located in an unincorporated area of north DeKalb County, due east of the interchange of Interstates 85 and 285 (the Tom Moreland Interchange).

Is this your first time running for office?

Yes

What experiences have best prepared you to hold elected office?

A seasoned senior policy analyst, knowledge broker, facilitator and implementer of socio-economic programs for development, my role has been people-centered development, connecting governments, civil society and other stakeholders to the knowledge, resources and networks they need to achieve development breakthroughs for greater impact for the people. Experience in designing policy/legislation development, programs through partnerships, building consensus, knowledge sharing for solutions that are based on a spirit of strengthened coordination, cooperation, commitment, and care for each other in the communities, counties, state and nation.

What would be your top priority upon winning office?

Since arriving in Georgia in 2005, it was home. I bring a message of hope and optimism, and of doing things right in troubling times. The American dream is beautiful and non-negotiable. Families are the fundamental unit of society and it is my priority to support parents, economically and socially, in raising their children in our great nation. I stand for the well-being of families. As your senator, I will fight for Senate District 40 and Georgia’s future.

What actions would you take to enhance government transparency and trust in government?

Consider the pressing actions regarding critical matters that impact at federal and state level that should be urgently addressed and effectively handled in a timely manner. For instance, the border crisis and its impacts at all levels. From every corner of society and different stakeholders there’s an offload of misperception, apprehension, reflecting confusion and compounded by poor responses to the challenges. Empower district level governance to reinforce socio-economic progress for county and state prosperity, strengthen public administration, social institutions to enhance economic and social well-being at the grassroot level.

Do you believe Georgia elections are secure and what additional security measures can be taken?

I encourage and promote fair elections for Georgia and around the country, encourage voter participation in elections, and educate voters about elections and their voting rights.

What is government's responsibility to ensure affordable housing?

There is no quick fix to affordable housing in the state. As noted by the 2023 Georgia Housing Needs Assessment report, the state’s housing inventory is inadequate for all income levels. It can’t expand fast enough to meet the increasing demand. There is a lot more to do and can be done.

Do you believe public access to public records is sufficient in your jurisdiction and, if not, what steps do you support to remedy that?

The tension of promoting government accountability and the several approaches by government agencies and the court systems can take to minimize the harm to individuals when sensitive personal information is to be posted on the internet needs a balanced review.