I WOULD like to share with you the information that I received from the central committee of the CNMI Democratic Party and its acting chairman Manuel C. Sablan.
According to the acting chairman, I am officially not a member of the party. This is sad news for me and especially for my family and those friends and neighbors who have worked with me during these some three years as your senator.
It is pretty difficult to understand and comprehend, especially because I have worked so hard to represent the common people of the CNMI.
First of all, I have always been a Democrat and will continue to be a Democrat contrary to the central committee’s statement.
However, I will respect the central committee’s decision even though I know full well that it is not the decision of the majority of the party’s members.
Please be assured that I will continue to work hard to do the work that is in the best interest of our common people; our young ones, our elderly, our manamko’, the sick, the needy, and our students in college here and abroad.
I will continue to work on legislation that will serve your best interest.
I believe that the decision was made by a selected few of the central committee.
I am a Democrat at heart and I will not let the central committee get in the way with my relationship with the true members of this great party.
We will meet again and I will present more of my agenda in this coming election period and I will continue to listen to your views and ideas to help us solve the many problems facing us here in the commonwealth.
My desire to serve you has not changed. After consultation with my family, a decision has been made — I will run in this midterm elections. I am left with no choice but to exercise my democratic right to be among your candidates for re-election under the independent banner.
Once again, I want to express my sincere appreciation for your continued support.
Thank you for your continued support, kindness and patience.
God bless.

SEN. LUIS PALACIOS
CRISOSTIMO (“ANGANDO”)
15th CNMI Legislature