Rayphand steps down as OVR director

James Rayphand has resigned as Office of Vocational Rehabilitation director after filing his candidacy for delegate for U.S. Congress in the 2024 general elections on Nov. 5.

In his letter of resignation addressed to Gov. Arnold Palacios and Lt. Gov. David Apatang, he stated that his resignation will take effect on Aug. 30, 2024.

He also apologized to Palacios and Apatang for not sharing the same enthusiasm for their choice of candidates and potentially putting them in a difficult position with conflicting endorsements. He is also sorry for not taking into account the effect of his candidacy on their choice.

“As you are aware I have expressed my intentions to make a bid for the CNMI delegate to U.S. Congress, and given your endorsement of another one of the current candidates, I do not want to put either of you in the position of having one of your Cabinet members opposing said candidate. I’m sorry that I do not share your enthusiasm for any of the candidates. I’m sorry too that I did not consider my position as a Cabinet member and the impression it would have on you for me to run against your candidate of choice. What I know is about politics, you could fit in a thimble, but I do know that some of those nearest and dearest to me have gone above and beyond this past week to ensure that I can make the submission deadline this week and get on the ballot in November—I cannot let their efforts, support and trust go unanswered.”

It was February of last year when he was appointed OVR director.

Palacios responded to Rayphand’s letter on Aug. 13 and wrote, “Though I am disheartened to see you leave, I understand and respect your decision to pursue new opportunities. Your contributions to OVR in the past 18 months have been invaluable, and this was evident in your dedication and hard work.”

Palacios also added Rayphand should ensure that any outstanding projects, tasks, and administrative matters will be addressed. He also asked Rayphand to recommend someone to work in an acting capacity.