Three senators returning to the 39th Guam Legislature have expressed interest in serving as Speaker, signaling a potential bid for the body's top leadership position.

Sen. Sabrina Salas Matanane, who currently serves as Legislative Secretary and Chairperson of the Committee on Health and Veterans Affairs in the 38th Guam Legislature, confirmed her intent following an inquiry from Guam News Network.

“I believe I can lead the 39th Guam Legislature as Speaker, but ultimately I am here to serve our people in any capacity,” said Salas Matanane.

Salas Matanane secured 14,220 votes, placing third overall among 30 candidates competing for 15 seats, according to unofficial election results released by the Guam Election Commission. She was also the top vote-getter among Republican candidates, finishing 303 votes ahead of current Majority Leader Jesse Lujan, who received 13,917 votes to place fourth. Democratic candidates Sen. Christopher Barnett and former Sen. Amanda Shelton secured the top two spots overall, receiving 19,783 and 15,835 votes.

Salas Matanane’s confirmation comes as discussions surrounding the next Legislature’s leadership begin to take shape. Sources indicate that Sens. Lujan, Christopher Duenas and Telo Taitague have also expressed interest in the Speakership.

While a response from Duenas was not received as of this publishing, Taitague confirmed her interest in the speakership.

Lujan also confirmed telling Guam News Network, "I would certainly be interested in vying for the position of speakership of the 39th Guam Legislature, as I do bring seniority to the table as a five-term lawmaker."

However, he acknowledged that the discussion and decision are made in caucus.

"And I will respect that process," he said. "We will start having more serious discussions once GEC certifies the 2026 General Election results."

The Speaker is elected by members of the Legislature to preside over proceedings and oversee chamber operations. While Republicans retained the majority for a second consecutive term, their margin has shifted from 9-6 to 8-7.

Several current members will not be returning to the Guam Legislature next term. Speaker Frank Blas Jr., Governor-elect and Vice Speaker Tony Ada, and Senators Tina Muña Barnes, Joe S. San Agustin, Therese Terlaje, and Sabina Perez all sought higher office. Ada won the gubernatorial election alongside EJ Calvo, defeating the Terlaje-Perez ticket.

Newly elected and returning members to the 39th Guam Legislature include Senator-elects Dr. Hoa Nguyen, Kallen Perez, Donna Muna-Quinata, along with former Sens. Telena Nelson, Amanda Shelton, and Clynt Ridgell.

Other members re-elected to the 39th Guam Legislature are Sens. William Parkinson, Vincent Borja, Shelly Calvo, and Shawn Gumataotao.