SAIPAN — Gubernatorial candidate Blas Jonathan “BJ” Tenorio Attao on Wednesday congratulated Vinnie Sablan on announcing a bid for the Republican nomination for governor in the 2026 general election, calling public service “a serious and honorable undertaking.”
Attao said he and running mate Edmund Villagomez “welcome an open, civil campaign” and wished Sablan well in his effort to secure the GOP nomination.
“We remain focused on listening to the community, addressing its needs, and working toward a stronger, more sustainable future,” Attao said in a written statement. He added that the ticket intends to continue serving as legislators and, if elected, as the next governor and lieutenant governor.
Below is the full statement:
“I would like to extend my congratulations to Vinnie Sablan on his announcement to seek the Republican nomination for Governor in the upcoming 2026 General Election.
Running for public office is a serious and honorable undertaking—one rooted in the shared desire to improve the lives of our people and strengthen the future of our Commonwealth. I have the utmost respect for anyone who steps forward to seek election and serve our community. My running mate, Edmund Villagomez, and I welcome an open, civil campaign, and we wish Vinnie well on his effort to secure the Republican party’s nomination.
We remain focused on listening to the community, addressing its needs, and working toward a stronger, more sustainable future. We are committed to continuing our service as legislators and, if given the privilege by the people, as the next Governor and Lt. Governor of the Commonwealth.”
