Arnold I. Palacios
(Office of the Governor) — In response to recent reporting on the CNMI government’s engagement of Prime Policy Group, Gov. Arnold I. Palacios on Tuesday addressed the decision, acknowledging the Commonwealth’s difficult economic times while emphasizing the critical necessity of investing in expert federal representation at this pivotal moment.
“We are acutely aware of the CNMI’s current fiscal challenges. The decision to invest $50,000 in the services of Prime Policy Group was not made lightly,” stated Governor Palacios. “However, the cost of inaction or inadequate representation in Washington, D.C., right now would be far greater for the people of the Commonwealth. We are facing a unique convergence of challenges and opportunities — including a potential federal administration transition, new congressional leadership, urgent economic recovery needs, and the long-overdue pursuit of 902 consultations — that demands strategic, high-level engagement.”
The news report correctly noted Prime Policy Group’s mandate to lobby the White House, U.S. Senate, and House of Representatives on critical issues including the budget, appropriations, defense, homeland security, natural resources, economic development, and Section 902 consultations.
“This scope reflects the complex and high-stakes environment we are operating in,” Governor Palacios explained. “Prime Policy Group provides bipartisan reach and deep expertise specifically needed to navigate this landscape effectively. Their immediate actions, such as securing a hearing before the House Natural Resources Committee and arranging crucial meetings with the Departments of Labor, Interior, Defense, and the Economic Development Administration, demonstrate the level of access and proactive advocacy required.”
Palacios said this engagement complements, rather than duplicates, other advisory roles. “Securing the CNMI’s future requires a multi-faceted approach. Prime Policy Group brings a specific capacity for legislative strategy, high-level negotiation, and navigating the intricacies of Washington, particularly during periods of transition, which is essential for achieving tangible results on issues like 902 and securing federal resources for economic development and critical infrastructure,” he said.
“This is not just lobbying; it is a strategic investment in securing vital federal support, driving economic recovery, and ensuring the CNMI’s voice is heard effectively on the national stage,” the governor concluded. “Given the critical issues at hand — from workforce development and military build-up coordination to budget impacts and advancing our 902 political status talks — providing our Commonwealth with seasoned, expert representation in Washington is an absolute necessity. I am confident this strategic decision will yield significant returns for the CNMI.”