Led by former Speaker Arnold I. Palacios, Republicans on Saipan gathered at the Commonwealth Election Commission to witness Babauta’s filing of his petition for candidacy.
If the national Republicans seize control of the U.S. House of Representatives, Rep. Joseph P. Deleon Guerrero said having a delegate who is also with the GOP will mean that “our voices here can have more strength.”
“He is qualified to represent the CNMI in Congress,” Palacios said, referring to Babauta.
Two other Republican lawmakers, Reps. Eliceo D. Cabrera and Joseph M. Palacios, said Babauta’s extensive experience will make him a good congressional delegate.
Cabrera said Babauta is well-versed with CNMI issues from the past, present and future.
He is also a good planner, Rep. Palacios said.
Babauta filed his petition at around 11 a.m. with his supporters.
In an interview, Babauta said Washington, D.C. is not a strange place for him, having served as the CNMI’s resident representative to the nation’s capital for 12 years.
He said he knows members of the Congress from both the Democratic and Republican parties.
Babauta is running against incumbent Congressman Gregorio C. Sablan, independent; former Lt. Gov. Jesus C. Borja, Democrat; and former Rep. Joseph N. Camacho, Covenant.
