By Emmanuel T. Erediano
[email protected]
Variety News Staff
EDUCATION Commissioner Dr. Lawrence F. Camacho will run as an independent candidate for governor with former Senate President Edith Deleon Guerrero as his running mate.
They made the official announcement on Saturday in the presence of their families, friends, and supporters at Morae Restaurant on Beach Road.
A retired lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army, Camacho, who grew up in San Roque, Saipan, promised leadership “that is trustworthy, filled with integrity to do what is right, and shrouded by dedication and devotion to improving the lives of everyone in our islands.”
Deleon Guerrero, who made history in 2023 by becoming the CNMI’s first female Senate president, conveyed residents’ frustration and uncertainty, saying “too many people feel exhausted, too many young people feel they must leave, and too many families feel like they are working harder while opportunities continue shrinking.”
“We understand their frustration. We understand that fear, but we also believe this moment gives us an opportunity to change course with intention,” she said.
Camacho and Deleon Guerrero were introduced by young educator and former athlete Preston Basa, who said, “We choose a team who has spent their lives earning this moment, not for themselves but for all of us.”
The time is now
Camacho emphasized that “the time is now” for a change in leadership.
When asked why he is running for governor, Camacho said he believes it is his time to give back to those who have supported him throughout his life. “The CNMI invested in me, and through my past, present, and future service, the return on that investment is vast,” he said.
He added that those who came before him shaped his life and ensured his future, and that it is now his responsibility to do the same for future generations.
“My grandparents, my mom and dad, my dear wife, and our kids and grandkids — all of them sacrificed so I am equipped with the tools necessary to take on this mission and answer the call for service greater than myself — to seek the office of governor of the CNMI,” he said.
Camacho said there is no better time than now to take on that responsibility, adding that he believes he has the tools necessary to address the CNMI’s challenges.
He pledged leadership “that will build upon the great works of past and current leaders,” and said he would continue to bring people together regardless of political affiliation or personal views.
He said he learned early on to value what each person brings to the table in solving challenges and improving island communities.
Camacho also said he is committed to being a steward of the Commonwealth and to protecting it “with all that is in him.” He said his leadership will focus on empowering people to work with accuracy, professionalism, and urgency.
He said he is deeply committed to addressing challenges facing the CNMI, including infrastructure such as power and water, as well as the economy, healthcare, crime, drugs, and other pressing issues.
He vowed that he and Deleon Guerrero “will unveil a roadmap for a real recovery from this economic downturn and from societal challenges such as the drug epidemic plaguing our islands,” adding that their leadership will focus on improving the lives of all residents.
Camacho also pledged “every ounce of sweat and tears” to ensure a leadership style grounded in passion and humility, saying their team will seek out and empower people with the talent and skills needed to serve the Commonwealth.
Stability, direction, and purpose
Deleon Guerrero said their gubernatorial bid is about restoring confidence that the CNMI can move forward with stability, direction, and purpose. She said their campaign is focused on achieving long-term, meaningful results.
She said their guiding principles are strength, courage, and patience.
Right now, she said, residents are concerned about rising uncertainty, workforce instability, healthcare challenges, economic pressure, and whether future generations will still have opportunities in the CNMI.
Deleon Guerrero, who spent many years in the banking and insurance industries before entering public service in workforce development, said people are demanding tangible action.
If elected, she said, their first 90 days will focus on stabilizing government operations, working with regional and seasoned economists, assessing healthcare and mental health needs, supporting workforce pathways, developing industries that are sustainable for the CNMI, strengthening agriculture and local supply chains, expanding technical education, and rebuilding public trust through consistent communication.
She expressed concern over the continued loss of local talent, saying too many young people are leaving the CNMI to seek opportunities elsewhere.
“We must create conditions where people can see a future here again. That means real workforce pathways, real career development, real investment in education, wellness, and opportunity,” she said.
She added that a resilient CNMI is built through coordination, discipline, and long-term vision.
Their campaign, she said, “is about building a stronger, more resilient CNMI and reclaiming our agency so future generations are proud to inherit it.”
So far, other candidates for governor include independent Rep. Blas Jonathan T. Attao, who is running with Speaker Edmund S. Villagomez; and former Republican Gov. Ralph DLG Torres, whose running mate is Kagman High School Principal Benjamin M. Jones Jr.
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.
