ROTA Republican Dennis Mendiola was elected Senate president on Monday.
Fellow Republican Karl King-Nabors of Tinian is the new Senate vice president, while Rota’s Donald Manglona, an independent, will serve as the new floor leader. Tinian Republican Francisco Cruz is the new legislative secretary.
Also sworn in during the 24th Senate’s inaugural session were Saipan Sens. Corina Magofna (Independent) and Celina R. Babauta (Democrat), who were joined by newly elected Manny Castro, a Democrat from Saipan.
The two other members are Tinian Republican Jude U. Hofschneider and Rota’s newly elected senator, Ronnie Calvo (Independent).
In his inaugural address, Senate President Mendiola said he was committed to “leading with the best interests of our people in mind.”
“I will engage in thoughtful and open dialogue and deliberate decision-making process to ensure that the need and voices of our people are at the forefront,” he added
He said members of the 23rd Senate worked “well together” and believes that in the 24th Senate “we can do the same…despite our political differences.”
“Let us channel our energy into finding solutions that will pave the way for a brighter future for the CNMI rather than getting bogged down on political affiliations or the municipality from which members hail from,” Mendiola said.
In an interview with reporters, he said Rota and Tinian are sometimes “overlooked.”
“I think [for] the members and myself, one of the strongest messages is just give Rota and Tinian their fair share,” he added.
For his first 100 days in office, he said they will try to work with the Palacios administration to “figure out some of these issues that are affecting our Commonwealth,” referring to tourism, the economy, and the military presence on Tinian, among other things.
For his part, Senate Vice President King-Nabors said he was “ready and willing” to work with his colleagues, the House of Representatives and the executive branch.
“It’s important that we put our differences aside…that we put politics aside and do what’s good for the CNMI. I really feel that that should not be hallow words…but something that we do with sincerity and with all our heart,” he said.
The newly sworn in members of the 24th Senate pose for a group photo.
The newly elected Senate president, Rota’s Dennis Mendiola, third right, poses for a photo with his family.
Members of the 24th Senate hold their inaugural session in the Senate chamber on Monday.
