Jim Rayphand
OFFICE of Vocational Rehabilitation Director James “Jim” Rayphand tendered his courtesy resignation on Aug. 5, 2024, a day before he filed his independent candidacy for U.S. delegate with the Commonwealth Election Commission.
In his resignation letter, Rayphand told Gov. Arnold I. Palacios that heading the OVR “has been one of the single greatest honors of my professional career, so it is with a sense of guilt though layered with deep respect for and gratitude to you … that I hereby tender my courtesy resignation effective August 30, 2024.”
A former educator and executive director of the Northern Marianas Protection & Advocacy Systems Inc., Rayphand said given that the governor has endorsed another candidate, “I do not want to put … you in the position of having one of your cabinet members opposing said candidate.”
The governor is supporting the candidacy of House Floor Leader Edwin Propst, a Democrat.
“I’m sorry that I do not share your enthusiasm for any of the [other] candidates. I’m sorry, too, that I did not consider my position as a cabinet member and the impression it would have on you for me to run against your candidate of choice,” Rayphand said.
“What I know about politics, you could fit in a thimble, but I do know that some of those nearest and dearest to me have gone above and beyond this past week to ensure that I can make the submission deadline this week and get on the ballot in November — I cannot let their efforts, support and trust go unanswered,” Rayphand added.
He thanked the governor for the opportunity to speak with him about the matter directly. “It meant a lot to me and I will continue to look for ways to support your efforts on behalf of our CNMI in any way that I am able,” Rayphand said.
In his reply to Rayphand, the governor said, “though I am disheartened to see you leave, I understand and respect your decision to pursue new opportunities. Your contributions to OVR in the past 18 months have been invaluable, and this was evident in your dedication and hard work.”
“As you transition out of your role, I ask that you ensure that any outstanding projects, tasks and administrative matters are addressed. Please give me a list of names for individuals who can work in an acting capacity to ensure the office continues to function seamlessly,” the governor added.
The other candidates for U.S. delegate are former Commonwealth Ports Authority Board Chair Kimberlyn King-Hinds, Republican; Chamorro activist Liana S. Hofschneider, Independent; and freelance business consultant and grants writer John Oliver Delos Reyes Bolis Gonzales, independent.
The incumbent Democratic delegate, Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan, is not seeking a ninth term.
