Benavente, R-Saipan, expressed his interest to become the minority leader but no official decision has been made by his fellow Republicans, who will hold nine of the 20 House seats.
Outgoing Vice Speaker Joseph P. Deleon Guerrero and outgoing Saipan and Northern Islands Legislative Delegation Chairman Ramon A. Tebuteb are said to be also interested in being the minority leader.
Benavente, a former three-term speaker and one-term lt. governor, said this issue has been discussed by the GOP already but there has been no final decision yet.
He said he respects Deleon Guerrero and Tebuteb “and I hope to get their support.”
Benavente said the House minority can pass legislation that will have great impact on the community.
He said their challenge is to get the support of the four independents who have aligned with the ruling Covenant Party.
