Last hurrah for the candidates

The different political parties vying in today’s elections spent Thursday night with their respective supporters to thank them for all their hard work, and all candidates expressed optimism in the outcome of the contest.

The Republican Party held a party for its supporters at the Garapan Fishing Base, while the Covenant Party held theirs at the residence of Vice Speaker and lieutenant gubernatorial candidate Tim Villagomez in As Lito. The independent team of Reps. Heinz Hofschneider and David Apatang gathered with their supporters at the Susupe Civic Center. The Democratic Party held a similar affair last Sunday.

For incumbent Republican governor, Juan N. Babauta, he expressed trust in the decision that will be made by voters today.

“This election is in the hands of the voters of the CNMI. I’ve always trusted the decision and the judgment of the people,” he said, expressing belief that ultimately, “it’s God favor.”

Babauta, who was first elected four years ago, is being challenged by three veteran politicians: former Gov. Froilan C. Tenorio of the Democratic Party, House Speaker Benigno R. Fitial of the Covenant, and Hofschneider, a long-time congressman.

At the Covenant’s camp, hundreds of supporters attended the thanksgiving gathering that was marked with food, cheers, music, and jubilant spirits that manifested optimism in today’s elections.

Villagomez, Fitial, and the party’s candidates praised their supporters for all their efforts during the political campaign. “There are two rallies tonight, but look at the force,” Villagomez said.

A huge crowd packed the spacious Villagomez compound. Villagomez said the Covenant Party’s ladies organized the event. He said the huge turnout echoed strong public support for the party, even though the event was not publicly announced.

Among those who graced the event were former First Lady Sophia Tenorio and Commonwealth Utilities Corp. board member Joe Torres.

“I believe that Ben and Tim are the most qualified candidates to bring in new investments to the CNMI and to bring in funding that will assist public and social services, including that for the Public School System,” said PSS employee Tony Gomez, a Covenant supporter.

Meantime, hundreds of Republican Party supporters took over the Beach Road area across Kristo Rai church in Garapan for their final hand waving event Thursday afternoon. Afterwards, the supporters gathered at the nearby Fishing Base grounds for a festive dinner gathering.

The party set up a big stage and tents in the area, adorned by yellow “BB” balloons and ribbons, and other political posters.

Also displayed in the GOP camp was a huge blue balloon saying, “Tinian Democrats support CNMI Republican Party.” The balloon was reportedly a gift from the Tinian Democratic Party.

GOP candidates running for different posts were each called with their spouses on stage during the event.

When it was time for Lt. Gov. Diego T. Benavente and Gov. Juan N. Babauta, the GOP ladies took charge by carrying them to the stage.

While the governor was being lifted on stage, supporters stood up, giving their loudest cheer for their gubernatorial standard-bearer.

“Biba BB! Biba Republican Party!” was the supporters’ chant of the night.

When the governor was introduced to speak, a newly composed political song, “He is the man” was played, prompting Babauta to pause and join others in shouting “Biba, Biba Republican Party!”

The political gathering which began at 4:30pm did not finish until about past 11pm.