(Press Release) — Galvin Sablan Deleon Guerrero, independent candidate for CNMI delegate to the U.S. Congress, issued Tuesday a statement denouncing the alleged federal export-control violations outlined in a recently unsealed criminal complaint, stating that criminal activity that references Saipan threatens national security and continues a decade-long pattern of negative national media attention that unfairly harms the CNMI.
“While we welcome law-abiding visitors from all source markets to our beautiful islands, illegal acts of any kind, including export control violations and conspiracy to violate US law, have no place in our community. We condemn unequivocally any actions that threaten national security, undermine the rule of law, or misuse our islands as a backdrop for criminal activity.
“Our islands are proud to be a part of the United States family. While there are a few in our community that make our islands vulnerable to these security risks by courting bad actors, by and large, the CNMI abides by U.S. laws and should be respected as a lawful, peaceful, and hardworking community. I stand with our law enforcement partners — including federal authorities whose efforts protect our security — in supporting thorough investigations and full accountability under the law.
“Over the last decade, we have unfortunately seen several stories in national and international media that have cast our home in a negative light — whether related to labor issues or isolated criminal activity. These stories do not define us. They distort the truth of who we are: a resilient, law-abiding, and welcoming community with deep cultural roots and a commitment to prosperity, stability, and dignity for every resident.
“And we need a delegate who will tell our real story in D.C.
“As CNMI delegate to Congress, I pledge to:
“• Support stronger partnerships between local and federal law enforcement to ensure compliance with all U.S. laws and to prevent our home from being exploited by those seeking to engage in illegal or harmful conduct.
“• Promote accurate and balanced narratives about the CNMI in national discourse — ensuring our achievements, our culture, and our contributions to the United States are heard alongside any challenges we face.
“• Advocate for responsible and sustainable economic development, so that future generations in the CNMI can thrive in a safe, secure, and respected home.
“The Marianas deserves prosperity, justice, and respect. We will continue to uphold the highest standards, reject illegal activity in all forms, and work together to build a future that honors our values and safeguards the CNMI’s reputation at home and abroad. That’s what I’m fighting for.”
