By Emmanuel T. Erediano
emmanuel@mvariety.com
Variety News Staff
THE Republican Party of the Northern Mariana Islands announced Monday that Second Vice President Patrick Cepeda is taking over as party president after former Rep. Joseph T. Leepan Guerrero stepped down for personal reasons.
First Vice President Pat Rasa also declined to assume the presidency due to health and personal reasons.
The GOP board of directors accepted Guerrero’s resignation and expressed deep appreciation for his leadership, dedication, and years of service.
Two months ago, Guerrero announced the opening of the NMI Republican Party slate for the 2026 general election, setting Dec. 12, 2025, as the deadline for submission of letters of intent to run as Republicans. Guerrero also highlighted former Gov. Ralph DLG Torres’s accomplishments, saying he foresees a stronger Republican Party in the upcoming general elections “if we all work cohesively together as one party.”
Monday’s announcement of the leadership change comes amid community discussions about whether Torres will run next year. A source said former Sen. Vinnie Sablan and Lt. Gov. Dennis James Mendiola are potential Republican gubernatorial candidates for 2026. Variety was unable to get a comment from Torres, Sablan or Mendiola.
In a statement, the GOP board and party members extended their gratitude to Guerrero and “look forward to his continued support and participation in advancing the principles and goals of the Republican Party.”
According to the party, Article III, Section 5 of the bylaws stipulates that Rasa was next in line to assume the presidency. However, she declined the position due to health and personal reasons.
Following proper deliberation and a formal vote, the board appointed Cepeda as the new party president effective immediately. The board said Cepeda is a long-standing party member recognized for his leadership, integrity, and commitment to public service. Under his guidance, the party is expected to continue building on its long history of service to the people of the Commonwealth.
The party’s new officers are: Cepeda, president; Rasa, first vice president; Irene Holl, secretary; and former Rep. Melvin Faisao, treasurer. The party will notify its members and supporters of the transition and updated board composition.
Emmanuel “Arnold” Erediano has a bachelor of science degree in Journalism. He started his career as police beat reporter. Loves to cook. Eats death threats for breakfast.