Boehner, R-Ohio, at the same time praised Tenorio for his “service to the CNMI as a long-time, local elected official and resident representative to Washington, D.C.”
The U.S. lawmaker said while delegates cannot cast a deciding vote on legislation on the floor, they can vote and do substantive work on the committee level.
“As a result of your experience, it is my intention to support your assignment to the House Natural Resources Committee which includes the Subcommittee on Insular Affairs,” Boehner told Tenorio, adding that he strongly supports his candidacy and wishes him good luck in today’s election.
The House Natural Resources Committee has oversight jurisdiction over the CNMI and other insular areas.
Boehner is looking forward to caucus with House Republicans, including Tenorio, during the 11th Congress.
Another Republican congressman, Tom Cole of Oklahoma, told Tenorio that “I am proud to join all of the Republican members of Congress in supporting your exciting campaign to become the very first delegate of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.”
“Your inclusion in Congress will add a wealth of experience in regards to issues that are most important to the people of the CNMI,” Cole added.
He said Tenorio worked with his office and other U.S. lawmakers on issues like energy, healthcare, education and defense.
“For seven years, you have worked passionately in Washington, D.C. representing our fellow Americans in the CNMI…as best as you possibly could without a seat in Congress,” Cole added.
