ASKED why he did not participate in a recent virtual gubernatorial forum hosted by local radio talk show Marianas Agupa, Gov. Ralph DLG Torres said he was not invited.
“I was surprised that after the event, I was called and asked why I didn’t participate, and I said that nobody called me,” he added. “The radio station knows my number. I would’ve been glad [to join] if they invited me to join. I’ve always been up to interviews, and to share insights and the right information with our community. But I wasn’t invited. That was just, I guess, their own show.”
Marianas Agupa host Glenn Manglona said he invited Torres and the two other gubernatorial candidates, Lt. Gov. Arnold I. Palacios, Independent, and Democrat Precinct 2 Rep. Tina Sablan via email.
Manglona provided Variety a screenshot of his email, which was dated Aug. 21, 2022. The virtual forum was held on Aug. 27, 2022.
A Republican, Torres is seeking re-election with Senate Floor Leader Vinnie F. Sablan as his running mate.
Palacios and Rep. Sablan participated in the virtual gubernatorial forum.
Palacios is running with Saipan Mayor David M. Apatang, while Rep. Sablan’s running mate is Precinct 5 Rep. Leila Haveia F. C. Staffler.
On Thursday, Sept. 29, the Saipan Chamber of Commerce will host a gubernatorial debate at the World Resort Saipan, Taga Hall, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
All three gubernatorial candidates have been invited.
Ralph DLG Torres
