“After consulting with my families and supporters, I am honored to announce my desire to run for the CNMI’s U.S. delegate in November 2008,” Crisostimo stated in his official statement to the people of the commonwealth sent to the Variety through e-mail.
Crisostimo, D-Saipan, outlined five issues that he would bring up in the U.S. Congress.
He said he will lobby for more federal funding for CNMI infrastructure which includes water, sewer, power, schools, roads, and other projects to bring the living conditions of local residents at par with their counterparts in the states.
He also plans to bring the CNMI closer to the U.S. military buildup on Guam to create more jobs and business opportunities for local residents.
Crisostimo said he will secure funding to help subsidize the increasing costs of healthcare, utilities, transportation and education in the commonwealth.
He will ask the federal government to ease restrictions on the entry of foreign students, visitors and investors to the islands, and for a more detailed clarification regarding the CNMI’s exclusive economic zone to allow the central government “to properly plan potential investments and developments.”
“I am ready to represent the CNMI and be the voice in protecting the best interests of our people,” Crisostimo stated.
Three other individuals have announced their candidacies — Washington Rep. Pete A. Tenorio, former Judge Juan T. Lizama and Rep. Ray N. Yumul.
