No statement yet from acting Governor after Macaranas firing as Governor Apatang set to return Friday
Saipan — The Apatang administration and Acting Governor Dennis Mendiola have yet to make any public comment about the sudden termination of Department of Public Safety Commissioner Anthony I. Macaranas on Monday. As of this morning, Macaranas hasn’t been informed of any reason for termination, either.
On Monday morning, Mendiola said a statement would be issued later that afternoon following a proclamation signing, but no statement had been released as of Thursday, leaving the administration’s position and next steps unclear.
Ralph DLG Torres formally declares intent to run for CNMI governor under Republican banner
SAIPAN — Former CNMI Governor Ralph Deleon Guerrero Torres has formally notified the CNMI Republican Party that he intends to seek the GOP nomination for governor in the next gubernatorial election, citing the territory’s economic troubles and growing anxiety among retirees and government workers.
CNMI GOP President Patrick Cepeda issues statement on passing of Diego Tenorio Benavente
SAIPAN — CNMI Republican Party President Patrick Cepeda is mourning the passing of former Lt. Gov. Diego Tenorio Benavente, calling him “a true leader” who dedicated his life to serving the people of the Commonwealth.
Former CNMI Lt. Gov. Diego Tenorio Benavente dies at 66
SAIPAN — Former Lt. Gov. Diego Tenorio Benavente, a fisherman-turned-entrepreneur who went on to serve as House speaker, lieutenant governor, and Republican Party chair, died early Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025. He was 66.
Vinnie Sablan says he’ll seek CNMI GOP nomination for governor in 2026
Letter to party chair Patrick Cepeda signals Republican field taking shape ahead of the 2026 general election.
SAIPAN — Former Senator Vinnie Vinson Flores Sablan said Monday he intends to seek the Republican Party’s nomination for governor in the 2026 general election, formally notifying CNMI GOP President Patrick M. Cepeda in a letter dated Nov. 10. In the letter, Sablan frames his run around “stability, accountability and prosperity,” and pledges to prioritize jobs, schools, health care and fiscal transparency.