New CNMI leaders sworn into office

David Apatang and Dennis Mendiola/Photo courtesy of the Office of the CNMI Governor

David Apatang takes his oath before CNMI Chief Justice Alexandro Castro on Capital Hill, July 24, 2025. Photo courtesy of the Office the CNMI Governor

By Pacific Island Times News Staff

Saipan--David Apatang was sworn into office Thursday as the CNMI's new governor to serve the remaining term of Gov. Arnold Palacios, who passed away Wednesday at the age of 67.

Senate President Dennis Mendiola is the new lt. governor, assuming Apatang's seat.

Apatang and Mendiola took their oaths at the Governor’s Office on Capital Hill before Chief Justice Alexandro Castro.

In their remarks, both Governor Apatang and Lt. Governor Mendiola acknowledged the deep sadness of the occasion, paying tribute to the late Governor Arnold I. Palacios.

“This is a sad day,” Apatang said, “but we honor Governor Palacios by continuing the work he began — with the same heart for service and commitment to our islands.”

Palacios and Apatang, who ran as independents, beat former Gov. Ralph Torres and Vinni Sablan in the 2022 runoff.

Palacios' term would have ended in January 2027.

Palacios was the second governor to die in office, following Eloy Inos, who died in December 2015.