WASHINGTON, D.C. — Kimberlyn King-Hinds, delegate-elect for the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, officially began her journey to the U.S. House of Representatives this week, attending freshman congressional orientation in the nation’s capital.
The 10-day orientation, which began on Tuesday, is designed to prepare newly elected members of Congress for their roles, responsibilities, and duties in Washington, D.C. King-Hinds has actively participated in meetings with congressional leadership, including Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, and has connected with fellow members of the 118th Congress.
Reflecting on her early experiences, King-Hinds remarked, “It’s been truly eye-opening to step into this arena. Over the last year, I’ve had the privilege of connecting with families across the CNMI, listening to their concerns and hopes for a stronger future for our islands. Since arriving here, I’ve committed to making sure the voices of the CNMI are heard in every conversation I’m part of.”
King-Hinds’s election and presence in Congress mark a new chapter for the CNMI. She has been recognized by her Republican colleagues for spearheading what has become a “red wave” of electoral victories across the country, and she has emphasized the CNMI’s critical role in U.S. national security. “Everything in America starts in the Northern Marianas — we are at the tip of the spear when it comes to protecting America’s interests. I’ve been tireless in ensuring that the CNMI has a say in matters of national security, immigration, and economic opportunity,” she said.
With the CNMI holding one of the earliest elections in the nation, King-Hinds has been credited by her Republican peers for setting the momentum in a series of Republican wins across the country. “I was genuinely and pleasantly surprised that House leadership took notice of the movement we built in the Commonwealth,” she said. “I’m proud of the message our community sent in this election and grateful that it’s resonating here. As the new term begins in January, I look forward to building on the connections we’re forming this week, turning them into partnerships that will advance our objectives back home.”
While committed to the values she was elected to uphold, King-Hinds stressed that her ultimate focus is on serving the unique needs of the CNMI. “I was elected to represent the people of the CNMI, not a party platform. While I am a proud Republican, my first responsibility is to improve the quality of life for the people of the Northern Marianas,” she stated. “I know there are people from the mainland who may not be familiar with who we are as a community, but I will not rest until they understand that we are strong, resilient, and deeply patriotic. We need a coalition of elected officials who appreciate and respect our culture and values. Sometimes we may differ, but through conversation and collaboration, we will succeed.”
This week, King-Hinds attended a reception hosted by Speaker Mike Johnson, where she had the opportunity to meet with other members of the Republican Party, House leadership, and her fellow Congressman Jim Moylan from Guam. “It was an honor to meet so many dedicated public servants, including Congressman Moylan, who understands our unique Pacific island issues. I’m optimistic about the collaboration we’ll foster for the benefit of our region,” King-Hinds said.
U.S. Congresswoman-elect Kimberlyn King-Hinds of the CNMI, left, and U.S. Congressman Jim Moylan of Guam, right, attend a reception hosted by Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Mike Johnson of Louisiana.
Delegate-elect Kimberlyn King-Hinds, center, receives a warm welcome to Congress by U.S. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise of Louisiana, left, Also in photo is Guam’s re-elected delegate, Jim Moylan.
