By Emmanuel T. Erediano
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Variety News Staff
REPRESENTATIVE Patrick H. San Nicolas, who is running for mayor in this year’s general election, on Friday vowed to ensure that Tinian’s residents and business owners benefit from the ongoing U.S. military buildup.
San Nicolas, a lifelong resident of Tinian, is the son of the late Tinian mayor and businessman Jose Pangelinan San Nicolas and the late Guillermina Villagomez Hofschneider San Nicolas. Married to Carol A. San Nicolas, he has served three terms as Tinian’s representative in the House and has devoted his career to public service and community leadership.
He formally announced his intent to run for mayor of Tinian in the 2026 general election under the Republican Party of the Northern Mariana Islands, submitting his official letter of intent to Precinct 6 Republican Party Chairman Ramon Dela Cruz.
San Nicolas said he has focused on advancing local priorities and strengthening municipal governance. Before his legislative service, he served as chairman of the Tinian Casino Gaming Control Commission and worked for many years as an investigator for the Commission. He is also a graduate of the police academy and served as a police officer on Tinian throughout the 1990s.
A Republican primary is scheduled for April, in which San Nicolas will face former Tinian Rep. Antonio SN Borja.
San Nicolas said he welcomes the primary process as an opportunity for voters to make an informed choice. Both candidates have pledged to support the eventual winner of the Republican primary, emphasizing the importance of party unity.
San Nicolas highlighted the significance of responsible leadership as Tinian experiences increased military development and federal investment. He stressed the importance of working collaboratively with the federal government and the administration to ensure that local residents and businesses benefit from the military buildup while safeguarding the island’s culture, environment, and quality of life.
“Tinian is at an important crossroads. We must move forward together with steady leadership, unity of purpose, and a clear vision that puts our people first. By working together, we can build a stronger and more prosperous future for our island,” he said.
San Nicolas extended his appreciation to the people of Tinian for their support over the past three elections. “Your trust and belief in my leadership mean more than words can express. I am truly honored to serve this community and remain committed to working hard for the betterment of our island and our future together,” he said.
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.
