Campaign season for CNMI's 2026 governor’s race kicks off amid economic uncertainty
- Admin
- Jul 13
- 2 min read
By Bryan Manabat
Saipan — With 15 months to go before the CNMI’s 2026 general elections, the early campaigning season has begun for the top elected executive position, with familiar figures and new contenders emerging.
The race for the governor’s office is shaping not only as a contest of leadership styles but as a referendum on the CNMI’s economy, federal support and political trust. The next general election will be held on Nov. 3, 2026.
Voters' growing anxiety over business and employment opportunities, sustaining critical government services, and safeguarding federal benefits such as Medicaid and SNAP cannot be understated.
With Washington’s tightening belt putting social programs at risk, voters are keenly watching which candidates can both negotiate with the feds and deliver at home.
The CNMI’s tourism-driven economy continues to wobble, and while the U.S. military infrastructure investments are touted as future game-changers, the trickle-down effects have yet to be felt by businesses and working families. '
The economic situation is prompting candidates to build grassroots networks across Saipan, Tinian and Rota, hoping early engagement can translate into lasting support.
Veteran lawmakers Blas Jonathan Attao and Edmund Sablan Villagomez, who both were undefeated in past elections, will formally announce their team.
On Saturday, supporters gathered at the Garapan RoundHouse endorsing the Attao-Villagomez team.
"That was families coming together and not an official announcement. That will be forthcoming," Attao told the Pacific Island Times.
Their decision to first seek blessings from family and elders speaks to the CNMI’s deep-rooted cultural values—a reminder that campaigns here start not with fanfare, but with familial consent.
Both men enjoy strong political backing, by sidestepping major party affiliations, Attao and Villagomez, who are making their bid as Independents, may be positioning themselves as the pragmatic middle, echoing voter frustrations with party-line politics.
Incumbent Gov. Arnold Palacios will seek reelection. He confirmed his intention to seek reelection under the Republican banner, a notable move considering he distanced himself from the GOP during the 2022 race. His runoff election victory alongside David Apatang was aided by public endorsements from Democratic candidates Christina Sablan and Leila Staffler.
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Can Palacios replicate that strategy in 2026 despite mounting criticisms over his administration's promise of change and accountability? His lukewarm posture toward reopening Chinese tourism also faced public scrutiny. Palacios has yet to announce a running mate, adding to speculation about whether he'll remain under the Republican banner.
Former Gov. Ralph DLG Torres has remained publicly undecided about a 2026 run, though many believe his political base remains intact and loyal. Torres’ candidacy will depend on his ability to reframe his leadership legacy and navigate voter concerns from past controversies.
The NMI Democratic Party has yet to announce its candidate for the governor’s office.
Alongside the gubernatorial contest, voters will also decide races for the NMI delegate, attorney general, legislature and mayoral offices. These races could reshape how federal relations are handled and how local laws respond to community needs, particularly in healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
The 2026 elections are shaping up to be more than a contest for prestige and power. The election will serve as a reflection of what CNMI residents value in leadership during uncertain times.
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