John Oliver “Bolis” Gonzales
AS someone who has served in various capacities in the Office of the Governor, John Oliver “Bolis” Gonzales said it is an honor to be appointed communications and policy advisor by Gov. Arnold I. Palacios and to “serve our people” in this capacity.
He said he was excited to return to the work he had done for almost three decades, citing his previous roles as a broadcast journalist, policy-making staff member, adviser, and chief of staff to prior governors.
“I am having fun so far and will continue to have fun working and leveraging the talents and abilities of our colleagues across the government,” said Gonzales, who has also been appointed by the governor as acting special assistant for administration.
He said the list of his tasks includes technical work in the upcoming 902 consultations with the representatives of the Trump White House.
He will also issue press releases, organize press conferences, and assist the governor with his speeches.
Gonzales said he will always be there to draft remarks for the governor or for the lieutenant governor whenever he serves as governor in an acting capacity.
In addition, Gonzales said, he will conduct policy reviews, recommend or tweak policies to advance the mission of the administration in providing assistance to the people of Rota, Tinian, Saipan and the Northern Islands.
All this, he said, has something to do with economic recovery as well as making sure “that we facilitate more efficient and effective government operations.”
“But again, the goal in mind is to have a direct and positive impact on the people. That is what matters the most,” Gonzales said.
Since he was appointed communications and policy advisor by the governor last month, Gonzales said he has been involved in the review of documents to make sure that the work flow is seamless and expedited.
Asked which documents he was tasked to review, Gonzales said, “Everything from the departments requiring the governor’s signature, approval, legislation, and review.”
