DeLeon Guerrero: Delegate bid is an option

Senate President Edith E. DeLeon Guerrero (D-Saipan) confirmed Monday night that she is indeed leaving the NMI Democratic Party and that a bid to run as the CNMI’s delegate in the U.S. Congress this November is an option being considered.

In response to Saipan Tribune’s question if she is seeking re-election, DeLeon Guerrero said she is still seeking guidance from friends and families on her options.

If she does run this Nov. 5, whether for re-election or for another post, it will be as an independent candidate, DeLeon Guerrero said.

This is the last year of DeLeon Guerrero’s first four-year term as a senator.

The NMI Democratic Party had announced Monday that DeLeon Guerrero, who ran as a Democrat and made history as the first woman to serve as Senate president, had informed the party’s chairman, Jonathan Cabrera, that she will be leaving the party after her current term ends.

When asked for comments about the Democratic Party’s disclosure that she is leaving, DeLeon Guerrero said much has happened that made her revisit the principles that she stands on and re-examine the “fueled relentless animosities.”

“I felt it best that I remove myself from such and choose to remain focused on my promise to work for and in the best interest of the CNMI and its people,” she said.

The Senate president said her respect for the Democratic Party officers in their personal or official capacities will always be there, “most especially the supporters that gave me the honor to represent their interests and this I have not wavered from.”

Rep. Edwin K. Propst (D-Saipan) recently announced his candidacy for the delegate position under the NMI Democratic Party.

Edith E. DeLeon Guerrero