By Emmanuel T. Erediano
emmanuel@mvariety.com
Variety News Staff
SENATOR Celina Roberto Babauta submitted a letter of intent to the Democratic Party of the NMI seeking endorsement for her reelection bid in 2026.
Babauta, who was first elected to the 22nd House of Representatives, will be serving her second term in the Senate if she wins.
In her letter to NMI Democratic Party Chair Annie Pickelseimer, Babauta said the challenges the CNMI faces — from economic recovery and infrastructure resilience to veterans’ services, environmental sustainability, and the cultivation of regional diplomacy and international relations — require steady, principled leadership rooted in service. She added that an unwavering commitment to the people has been and will continue to be the focal point of the work she leads.
She said she remains deeply committed to the NMI Democratic Party’s shared values of equity, justice, responsible governance, and the firm belief that government should work for the people.
“It is with these values in mind that I wish to continue serving the NMI people and seek to further contribute through an elected office,” Babauta said.
In a statement to Variety on Monday, Babauta, the lone member of the Senate’s minority bloc, said, “I am deeply grateful for the trust and support the people of the Commonwealth have placed in me over the years. Serving you in the Senate has been both an honor and a solemn responsibility.”
“I intend to seek reelection to the Senate. I have been faithful to the people I represent — never complacent, never silent, and always willing to do the hard work required to protect the public interest,” she added.
She highlighted some important priorities currently underway that she is committed to continuing “for the benefit of our families, our retirees, our veterans, and future generations.”
“The people can expect the same tenacity and vigilance moving forward,” Babauta said.
Emmanuel “Arnold” Erediano has a bachelor of science degree in Journalism. He started his career as police beat reporter. Loves to cook. Eats death threats for breakfast.
