Rep. Diego T. Benavente, R-Saipan and the chairman of the House Committee on U.S. & Foreign Relations, said Sablan’s election is very timely in the wake of the changes in the CNMI’s immigration system next year.
“I congratulate him, of course,” said Benavente. “It’s very timely that we have a representative now in the U.S. Congress. We have the federalization issue to look into. I look forward to seeing a more effective action through Congressman Greg Sablan.”
Rep. David Apatang, R-Saipan, also congratulated Sablan.
He expressed hope that Sablan’s close association with Sen. Daniel Inouye, D-Hawaii, who had been endorsed to become the next chairman of the powerful Senate Appropriations Committee, would be helpful for the CNMI.
Sablan previously worked as Inouye’s special assistant.
Sablan is expected to align with the ruling Democrats in the U.S. Congress.
Sen. Robert Byrd, D-W.V. and the current chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, is stepping down. He recommended Inouye to replace him.
In a statement, Inouye said he is humbled by the opportunity and hope to match the stellar performance of Byrd whom he described as his “mentor” for over 30 years.
Outgoing Washington Rep. Pete A. Tenorio, with the backing of the Fitial administration, requested the U.S. Congress last year for a $30 million bailout package.
The request was rejected but the U.S. Interior Department did agree to reprogram unused grants for the CNMI to rehabilitate its antiquated power plant facilities, particularly on Saipan.
Lawmakers said a stable power supply is a very important issue that needs the assistance of the U.S. Congress as the islands have no financial means to undertake such huge project.
