Atalig was the first to officially announce his candidacy for the House in this election year.
He said he will run as Independent candidate so “my door will be open to everyone and will not be one-sided, and my judgment will be fair, and will not be intimidated by party and family factors.”
Although he didn’t say he resigned from the Republican Party, Atalig said running as an Independent candidate is the “best option to go.”
But he said he will not turn down the support of any political party.
He refused to disclose his gubernatorial candidate, saying “it is too premature.”
As the lone Republican candidate for the two Precinct 2 House seats in 2005, Atalig finished third and last, garnering 382 votes. The Covenant Party’s Jesus SN. Lizama, who finished second, received 463 votes.
While he agreed that political machinery, financial support, and endorsement from prominent politicians are important, Atalig said the “mentality of voting has changed and it’s not about party affiliation anymore but who can really serve the CNMI more effectively.”
He said the incumbent representatives of Precinct 2 — the Covenant Party’s House Minority Leader Oscar M. Babauta and Raymond D. Palacios — are strong contenders.
“We cannot underestimate them — they are great candidates,” Atalig added.
Other candidates will try to get the support of religious and business groups as well as other organizations, but Atalig said he will be rely on his platform of government and his sincerity to serve the community.
If elected, he said he will create job programs for the youth and open a center where they can develop their talents and skills.
Atalig said he will pursue a beautification program within the community to maintain a healthy environment that can attract not only visitors but also investors.
“I will also help the education system because I believe education is the key to build a strong community,” he added.
Atalig’s campaign committee members and advisers are Tony Benavente, Felix Limes, Jose Lizama, Jose Rasa, Gordon Marciano and Billy Dela Cruz.
