Speaker Benjamin Cruz, who has been newly sworn in as public auditor, has resigned from the 34th Guam Legislature.
“I am deeply humbled by the faith our People have had in me, and by the chance they have given me to protect our children, fight for the working class, and ensure some measure of accountability in our government through the lawmaking process,” Cruz sad in a statement.
His resignation was effective 10 a.m. to day.
“As I embark on a new path of service to our people, know that I too have faith in the new generation of leadership already standing at the helm of this branch and others. No one can be perfect. Everyone fails some of the time,” Cruz said.
“But as FDR said, ‘it is common sense to take a method and try it. If it fails, admit it frankly and try another. But above all, try something.’ I hope this branch continues to take on our community’s biggest challenges—never being afraid to try earnestly regardless of the direction the political tides may turn.”
On Wednesday, Cruz stepped down as chairman of the appropriations committee and recommended Sen. Tom Ada to take his place.
“Tom Ada is an exemplary leader and a great friend. As Speaker for a little while longer, I asked that he chair the Committee on Appropriation because I trust him, because our colleagues trust him, and, most importantly, because the People of Guam trust him,” Cruaz said in a statement. “ I want to publicly thank Senator Ada for accepting this new responsibility and I want to commend my colleagues for ensuring a smooth transition of this committee’s duties.”