Deep-Sea Mining Push (American Samoa): The U.S. Marine Minerals Administration has issued a Proposed Leasing Notice to advance offshore seabed mineral leasing near American Samoa, with a potential first-ever U.S. deep-sea mining lease sale tied to a Nov. 19, 2026 auction; the plan covers tens of millions of acres and is framed as securing “critical minerals” for U.S. supply chains, but it’s met with strong local and regional backlash. Local Opposition & Governance: Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula says the territory has raised concerns—especially over impacts to the tuna canning industry—and will use a 60-day comment period; Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata reiterates her opposition, saying no one speaks for her and pointing to her repeated public statements and filings. Community Voices: A “Stand with the Moana” shoreline demonstration drew youth, elders, educators, fishermen, and conservation advocates to oppose the leases, while the Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa urged a decisive stand and called for a moratorium. New Concerns on Radioactivity: A report warns mining could release naturally occurring radioactive materials from polymetallic nodules, adding fresh health and environmental worries. Fuel Prices Relief: Separately, American Samoa’s Office of Petroleum Management set a new Maximum Allowable Price effective July 15, citing easing freight and refined product prices, with diesel declines across categories. ASCC Agriculture Research Facility: American Samoa Community College’s ACNR Division opened its renovated Fale Samoa, funded through USDA NIFA support, to boost community-focused research.