Julita Villagomez, the acting executive director of the commission, said the ballots are “okay” and that all are set for the first ever federal election to be held in the CNMI.
The posting and distribution of specimen ballots is due on Oct. 28.
The names of the nine candidates will appear on each ballot with their corresponding numbers:
1. John Oliver Gonzales, Ind.
2. Chong Won, Ind.
3. former Tinian Sen. David M. Cing, Democrat
4. retired Judge Juan T. Lizama, Ind.
5. Washington Rep. Pete A. Tenorio, Republican
6. Sen. Luis P. Crisostimo, Ind.
7. John Davis, Ind.
8. Gregorio C. Sablan, Ind.
9. Felipe Q. Atalig, Ind.
Villagomez said the only problem the commission might face is the lack of a quorum when it canvasses the votes after the election date.
The commission has nine members — two each from Tinian and Rota and five from Saipan.
The term of Tinian’s Jose Kiyoshi has expired and his seat remains vacant.
The rule is that each of the three major islands of the CNMI must have a representative when the commission convenes to count the ballots.
Senators earlier passed Senate Bill 16-34 to amend the terms of offices of the commissioners.
The House, however, decided to refer the same bill to a committee.
Rep. Victor B. Hocog, Ind.-Rota, said they want to first meet with the bill’s sponsor, Sen. Joseph M. Mendiola, Covenant-Tinian.
House Floor Leader Joseph N. Camacho, R-Saipan, said the bill should address the commission’s concern over the lack of a representative from Tinian.
“The commission needs a quorum before the Nov. 4 election,” he said.
12,947 voters have registered for this historic election and polling places will be designated on Oct. 20.
Precincts polls will be opened from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Election Day when a liquor ban also takes effect.
