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Let me count the ways
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Posted on Feb 19 2005
Mr. John S. DelRosario, Jr.’s perspective on the CNMI economy is woefully childish—to use his own words. The broken economy he is referring to is a global problem. The USA itself, one of the biggest economies in the whole world is on the red at this time to the tune of billions of dollars. Even the State of California, which is No. 6 in the list of the biggest economic powers, is also in the red. Germany. Japan. France. Come on! You blame the Governor for the global economic problems that resulted from 9/11? You blame the Governor for the reduction of tourists coming to the country also due to 9/11? Why don’t we just count the ways as to why the Governor must have four more years?
Who fought for us the stateless residents of the CNMI? While some Senators even came out with a resolution fighting our cause, Governor Babauta went to Washington DC to plead for us.
Who pursued the Approved Destination Status signed with the Chinese government that is now bringing in hundreds of tourists into the country? Governor Babauta braved the winter storm to go to Beijing to ensure the signing of the ADS.
Who made our roads passable, streets identified, used the CIP funds totaling $100 million that for years had not been tapped so we could have more development on the island? Governor Babauta’s Washington D.C. connections helped him secure the most needed CIP funds to improve the island’s physical condition.
Who is living up to his promise to take gambling away from the villages while at the same time ensuring that the poker owners will have a place in a zoned area so they could continue their business? Governor Babauta’s smart balance of the situation is something to credit him for.
Who has refunded our taxes even from the years before his administration? Governor Babauta has carried the burden of paying off the refunds even from way back 1998 and 1999. Although slowly, he carried the liability of the past and paid us off.
His courage to face up to issues, no matter how controversial they are, is something that makes me proud to have him as our Governor.
Buddy Petersen
San Jose, Saipan
