“IT is simply a matter of principle and to honor the wishes of those I was elected to serve,” Rep. Joel Camacho said in his official announcement on Monday regarding his resignation from the Republican Party and intent to seek reelection as an independent in the 2022 election.
Camacho, who is serving his second term as one of two Precinct 4 House members, submitted his letter of resignation to NMI Republican Party acting president Candace Celis on Friday.
“To my constituents in Precinct 4, through countless talks with community members, families and friends, I have made the decision to run as an independent candidate for this upcoming election,” he said in a statement Monday.
“Throughout my tenure as a representative of Precinct 4 through your vote of confidence, I have and I continue to do the best to serve our community to the best of my ability and it is my firm belief that the work for our people outweighs politics and I have always led that way. I have humbled myself for the service of others and to do the work Precinct 4 has elected me to do which is to represent the interests for the greater good of our Commonwealth.
“Although I began my terms as a member of the Republican Party, I ran under the precept of service and nothing more. However, after hearing countless concerns from members in the community of Precinct 4, I feel that is in the best interest to run as an independent candidate to serve our people more effectively. It is my wish that one day, all political parties can put their differences aside and all focus on the common good for our beloved Commonwealth.
“While I do believe there are many outstanding individuals currently in the Republican Party in which I have built great relationships with, my decision was in no way meant to hurt or break relationships with anyone. It is simply a matter of principle and to honor the wishes of those I was elected to serve. Regardless of who I align with, the decisions I make as your representative will always be to serve the best interests of the people, for the people, by the people.”
Three other Republican House members — Vice Speaker Blas Jonathan Attao and House Floor Leader Ralph Yumul of Precinct 3, and Rep. John Paul Sablan of Precinct 2 — have expressed support for the independent gubernatorial tandem of fellow Republicans Lt. Gov. Arnold I. Palacios and running mate Saipan Mayor David M. Apatang.
Joel Camacho
