ANTONIO AGUON SANTOS

Q. What would you consider the top three issues or concerns facing the CNMI that demand immediate action from our government leaders?

A. The three top issues are: the economy, the CUC surcharge and the EIC.

Q. What ideas can you bring to the table to revive the CNMI economy?

A. As governor in 1994, I turned the economy around, and starting at $138 million in 1993, I increased the revenues to the greatest ever, topping at $242 million at the end of my term (an average of over $65 million per year), by encouraging private sector growth from our entrepreneurs and foreign investors. I will revitalize our economy by reversing the current anti-business attitude of the present administration and repeal laws enacted by the Legislature that discourage economic growth. I will take personal charge of turning our economy around because I am the only candidate with a proven track record as the best economic ambassador the CNMI has ever had. I will market our islands aggressively to U.S. and foreign investors. I will bring diversified investment to take advantage of our geographical location and free trade zone status. I will make local preference meaningful, but when we need foreign workers, I will expedite the processing of labor permits. I have succeeded before, and I can and will improve our economy again.

Q. What is your vision for the Commonwealth? And what are the steps that must be taken to achieve that vision?

A. My vision is for the Commonwealth to become self-sufficient and self-reliant. I want us to be able to survive as a proud member of the American political family without financial assistance as much as possible from the federal government. All the territories of the United States depend so much on the federal government for their survival. I don’t want us to be just like them.

Since we control our own immigration, we must take advantage of its potential by bringing in investment such us silver town homes for foreign wealthy retirees, convention facilities to attract big companies to hold their conventions here and bring their families, attract tourist facilities investors such as aquariums. We should build medical facilities and establish a telemedicine initiative where the best doctors all over the world can help diagnose and treat patients locally through the use of advanced communications technology. This service will be available to local as well as to residents from our Micronesian neighbors. These are but a few of the ideas.

Q. What needs to be changed in people’s ways of thinking and doing things as a means to help you achieve your vision? How can that shift in thinking be achieved?

A. The people’s way of thinking needs not be changed. What is needed is leadership, and as governor, I will provide that.