SAIPAN — Lieutenant Governor Dennis James C. Mendiola announced Monday that he will not seek any candidacy in the November 2026 election, citing the need to focus on defending himself in a matter pending before the Superior Court while continuing to fulfill his duties in office.
Mendiola called it one of the hardest decisions he has had to make, but said it was the fair and responsible choice under the circumstances.
“This was not an easy decision for me,” Mendiola said. “I care deeply about our CNMI, and I believe I have the leadership, experience, and knowledge to help move our Commonwealth forward. But at this time, I believe this is the right decision for my family, for the people I serve, and for the office I hold.”
The lieutenant governor maintained that he is innocent of all charges against him and said he intends to continue defending his name and integrity. He said he owes it to his family and to the people of the CNMI to address the matter directly so the public can have a clearer understanding of his character and the truth.
Mendiola also stood by his conduct in office, including the decisions he made as acting governor last month, which drew public attention when he fired DPS Commissioner Anthony Macaranas and Grants Director while Governor David Apatang was in Washington, D.C.
“I will stand by the decisions I have made,” he said. “Everything I have done has been with the intention of serving the best interests of our government and our people.”
Mendiola said his decision not to run does not reflect any loss of commitment to public service and emphasized that he will remain in office and fulfill his constitutional responsibilities through the end of his term.
“I will continue to fulfill my constitutional responsibilities as Lieutenant Governor and continue working hard to improve the lives of our people,” he said. “This will not deter me from doing everything I can to help move the CNMI forward.”
