By Pacific Island Times News Staff
Northern Marianas Gov. Arnold Palacios is returning to the Republican Party, along with American Samoa's governor-elect Pulaalii Nikolao Pula, aligning themselves with the nation’s incoming ruling party.
"Following President Trump’s landslide victory in November, enthusiasm for the Republican Party is at historic highs and America’s future is bright again,” said Michael Whatley, chairman of the Republican National Committee.
“I am proud to welcome Gov. Pula and Gov. Palacios to the Republican Party as just the latest proof that our common-sense agenda represents victory for all Americans, from the islands to the mainland,” he added.
Palacios, who ran as an independent candidate for governor in the 2022 election, left the Republican fold in 2021 while serving as the lieutenant governor. That year, Palacios distanced himself from then Gov. Ralph Torres, who faced investigation for graft and corruption.
“I was elected to serve the best interests of the people of the Northern Mariana Islands above all else, and that commitment remains unwavering,” Palacios said.
“It is clear to me that President Trump and the Republican Party’s message of freedom, opportunity, and strength at home and on a global stage best aligns with the vision and priorities of improving the economy and creating better opportunities for every family in the Northern Mariana Islands. I look forward to working with fellow Republicans on our shared work ahead,” he added.
Pula, who served as the director of the Office of Insular Affairs from 2002 to 2022, defeated incumbent Gov. Lemanu Peleti Mauga in a runoff last month.
“It is clear to me that Republican Party values of respect for God, Country and Family are Samoan values. President Trump and the only GOP’s ironclad commitment to reforming the federal government along with growing the economy will greatly benefit American Samoa, as we develop a partnership to build a strong economy here over the next four years,” Pula said.
Gov. Brian Kemp, chairman of the Republican Governors Association, welcomed his colleagues to the party, saying they are “taking this bold step for their constituents.”
Rep. Amata Coleman Radewagen, American Samoa’s delegate to Congress, said her “job of making sure the Trump administration pays close attention to the needs of our islands will be greatly strengthened with the backing of these two strong leaders. I have known both of them for decades.”
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