SAIPAN — After months of speculation, former Governor Ralph DLG. Torres has formally entered the 2026 gubernatorial race, submitting a letter to the CNMI Republican Party on March 15 with Benjamin Mendiola Jones Jr., a respected local educator, as his candidate for lieutenant governor.
The letter, addressed to CNMI Republican Party President Patrick Cepeda, describes the ticket as a “balanced team of executive leadership and educational experience” and calls the upcoming election a critical moment for the Commonwealth.
“Our islands face serious economic challenges, rising costs, and growing concerns about the stability of our schools and opportunities for our families,” the letter states.
Torres, who served as CNMI governor from 2015 to 2023, said he brings executive leadership and established relationships to support economic recovery. Jones, described in the letter as a lifelong educator, is positioned on the ticket as the candidate focused on schools, children and community service.
The team outlined four priorities: restoring economic stability, strengthening tourism and U.S. partnerships, supporting educators and working toward restoring a full five-day school week.
“We believe that economic recovery and a strong education system are essential to supporting families, rebuilding our workforce, protecting our retirees, and securing the long-term future of the Commonwealth,” the letter states.
Both Torres and Jones signed the letter as members of the Republican Party seeking the party’s support ahead of the general election.
