Paletuatoa Peniamina has conceded the presidential election to Sean Mueller, according to a press release issued after the vote.

Peniamina called Mueller to concede, the release said. While final election results had not yet been reported, Peniamina said it was clear he had lost the race.

In remarks described in the release, Peniamina said he believes in democracy and wished Mueller well as he prepares to take office. The concession follows prior reporting that Mueller won the presidential election in a closely watched 2026 result.

The release characterized Peniamina as a two-term incumbent and said he is leaving the White House with approval near 60% in polls. No additional polling details or final vote totals were provided.

Peniamina’s acceptance of the outcome comes amid a polarized national political climate, where questions involving election administration, executive authority and public trust have remained prominent. His statement, as described by the release, did not challenge the legitimacy of the election.

Peniamina also did not rule out seeking the presidency again in the future, according to the release. He offered no timeline or formal indication that another campaign is planned.

Mueller has not been quoted in the release, and no details were provided about the two men’s conversation beyond Peniamina’s concession and well wishes.