Benavente, currently a House member representing Precinct 1, said he will announce his running mate in the coming weeks.
That person, he added, will be “someone with whom I share the vision of working hard now for our future.”
Benavente, who served as speaker for six years before being elected lt. governor in 2001, said he’s ready for the mounting challenges that the next governor will face.
“After much reflection on my 18 years of service as an elected official and with the committed support of my family and friends, I have embarked upon this journey to answer the greatest call in our commonwealth’s greatest time of need,” he said in his letter to GOP President Edward Tenorio.
“One indeed may question why any person would aspire to seek election as governor during this most difficult time in our history with a bleak economy and seemingly incredible challenges,” Benavente said. “One may question the wisdom of trying to aspire to public office at a time when public opinion is at its most skeptical of our elected officials…. My answer is that now is the time for me to take upon the mantle of service for the commonwealth and I embrace the challenge and welcome the opportunity.”
Benavente said he has the commitment to help the local community rise above its economic challenges.
He said the coming years will be one of turmoil but he’s ready to face these daunting challenges.
He said his late parents, Roman and Dolores, gave him three gifts that should guide him in his vision for the CNMI: “Help your neighbors. Give to your neighbors. And love your neighbors. I know no other way. I may not be wealthy in money or material possessions but I have become wealthy in the rewards of helping others in their time of need.”
He added, “I may not hold a degree or be possessed with the greatest intellect, but I know one thing: if you are committed to service to others above yourself, then you understand sacrifice. I am committed.”
He called on his fellow Republicans to rally behind his gubernatorial bid.
“I make the pledge of commitment to our people. I make the pledge of fundamental party loyalty. I pledge my loyalty to those among us who also answer the call and welcome the challenge to serve if elected and support each other all the way,” he said.
Besides Benavente, former Gov. Juan N. Babauta and Rep. Heinz S. Hofschneider are also expected to seek the GOP gubernatorial nomination.
Benavente was Babauta’s running mate in the 2001 and 2005 elections.
