Summary
A two-part referendum was held in Guam on 4 August 1979. A proposed new constitution was rejected by 82% of voters, whilst a law introducing the death penalty was rejected by 53% of voters.[1] In August 1987 a referendum was held on another proposed constitution, with each chapter voted on separately. Two chapters (I and VII) were rejected by voters, resulting in a second referendum in November in which both were approved.
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| Do you approve the proposed constitution for the Territory of Guam? | ||
|---|---|---|
| Do you approve of a law instituting the death penalty for a person convicted of first degree murder under aggravating circumstances? | ||
Background edit
On 21 October 1976 the United States Congress had approved the establishment of Constitutional Councils for Guam and the United States Virgin Islands.[2] In December 1976 the Guamanian Legislature decided to hold an election for the Council.[2]
In 1978 US President Jimmy Carter approved the proposed 14-chapter constitution, and a referendum was scheduled for 7 November.[2] However, following a dispute over the gubernatorial election, it was postponed until 1979.[2]
Results edit
Do you approve the proposed constitution for the Territory of Guam?
| Choice | Votes | % |
|---|---|---|
| For | 2,367 | 18.15 |
| Against | 10,671 | 81.85 |
| Invalid/blank votes | 118 | – |
| Total | 13,156 | 100 |
| Registered voters/turnout | 27,606 | 47.66 |
| Source: Guam Election Commission | ||
Do you approve of a law instituting the death penalty for a person convicted of first degree murder under aggravating circumstances?
| Choice | Votes | % |
|---|---|---|
| For | 6,002 | 46.61 |
| Against | 6,876 | 53.39 |
| Invalid/blank votes | 278 | – |
| Total | 13,156 | 100 |
| Registered voters/turnout | 27,606 | 47.66 |
| Source: Guam Election Commission | ||