Backlash prompts CNMI governor to recall $80K pay request for aide

David Apatang

By Bryan Manabat

(This story has been updated following the governor's recall of his request.)

Saipan— Just two days before issuing a directive for sweeping cost-cutting measures, CNMI Gov. David Apatang asked the legislature to approve an $80,000 annual salary for his special assistant, $20,000 above the government’s $60,000 salary cap.

Following public outcry, Apatang today recalled his salary increase request for

Henry Hofschneider.

In his letter to House Speaker Edmund Villagomez and Senate President Karl King-Nabors, Apatang withdrew his Sept. 29 request.

Hofschneider, who previously served as Apatang’s aide during his tenure as

Saipan mayor, is currently facing charges alongside three co-defendants for alleged misconduct in public office.

The charges stem from unauthorized lump-sum payments for accrued annual leave from the Saipan Mayor’s Office. Hofschneider denied the allegations.

On Sept. 30, in a bid to prevent a government shutdown, Apatang signed off on a $179 million budget for fiscal year 2026 but urged lawmakers to pass a revised spending plan based on lower revenue projections of $156 million.

He also called for immediate austerity measures to preserve essential services.

“We just have to bite the bullet and see what we can do to save money,” Apatang said. “Even our people can understand that—we have to cut. We don’t have the money. So, we just have to work together and see what we can do to come up with some additional funding somewhere.”

However, the governor did not publicly disclose his Sept. 29 request to raise Hofschneider’s salary above the cap.

On Oct. 1, Apatang issued a directive, instructing executive departments to implement austerity protocols, including reduced work hours, a hiring freeze, travel bans, overtime restrictions, and a halt on non-essential purchases.

“Fiscal recovery is a top priority for my administration,” Apatang wrote, urging government employees to help manage public funds responsibly and ensure efficient delivery of core services. “Each of us has a vital part to play in cutting expenditures and realigning our operations with the resources we have as we navigate this challenging fiscal climate.”

The governor said the austerity measures are necessary to stabilize finances, streamline operations, and maintain essential services. But his request to raise Hofschneider’s salary has drawn criticism from both public and private sectors, with many questioning the timing and rationale. Apatang has yet to issue a formal explanation.

In a statement, Lt. Gov. Dennis Mendiola said he does not support or condone the recent salary increases that have come to light.

"While I fully respect the governor’s authority—particularly when it comes to budgetary and personnel decisions—I believe we must also be mindful of the emotional and financial impact such decisions have on our people," Mendiola said.

"Let me be clear: this message is not intended to undermine or circumvent the governor. Rather, it is meant to express my position transparently and responsibly. The governor and I maintain a productive working relationship; however, that does not mean I agree with every decision made. Ultimately, the authority over the governor’s staff lies solely with the governor,” he added.

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