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CNMI CNMI

Republican Gov. Ralph DLG Torres, second right, and Senate Floor Leader Vinson F. Sablan, second left, pose for a photo with their wives,
Roca Q. Sablan, left, and First Lady Diann T. Torres, right, after casting their votes in the gubernatorial runoff election. (Photo by K-Andrea
Evarose S. Limol)

our administration must be built upon a foundation of trust, fiscal situation, working in concert with the CNMI Legislature
cooperation, and your willingness to work together. Our and federal partners.
people will face many challenges in the next four years, some He highlighted that government overspending is an issue,
of which are beyond our control. With your support and with noting that in the current administration, departments have
your continued commitment to our islands, we will meet purchased luxury vehicles while medical referral patients
these challenges side-by-side and overcome all obstacles lacked basic transportation to access much-needed off-island
together,” they said. healthcare.
They continued, “The story of our people is one of the “Do we need to resize different departments and hold them
persistence and perseverance that flourishes when we work accountable? Yes, [and] we will,” Palacios said in a local radio
together. Now more than ever, our Commonwealth needs the interview.
very best you have to offer. Without you, the full potential of A report from the transition team will be needed for the
our people will never be realised. Republicans, Democrats, first 100 days, detailing the priorities of each government
and Independents, the time has come for all of us to move department, as well as identifying funds for urgent fiscal
forward together. Thank you for your votes, thank you for matters, such as the mandated retiree benefits, balancing the
your support, thank you for your trust. Biba Marianas!” government’s annual budget, and rebuilding typhoon-stricken
Unofficial election results at the time of writing showed structures.
Palacios and Apatang securing a majority of votes on Saipan Palacios said that his Cabinet will be vetted appropriately
and Rota, as well as absentee votes. Torres and Sablan only with strict requirements on necessary credentials, integrity
prevailed in the early voting count and in two precincts: Tin- and drive, regardless of political affiliations.
ian and the Northern Islands.
Palacios said that in its first 100 days, his administration will k_andrea@mvariety.com
focus on fiscal responsibility and infrastructure recovery, reas-
sessing and reevaluating the government’s expenditures and

Islands Business, December 2022 19