Mesngon is acting governor

Sen. Steve Mesngon (R-Rota) is fourth in the official rules of succession, but he is currently the acting governor in the absence of Gov. Ralph DLG Torres, Lt. Gov. Victor B. Hocog, and Senate President Arnold Palacios (R-Saipan).

Torres left the CNMI on Friday for Honolulu, Hawaii to meet with officials from the office of economic adjustment under the U.S. Department of Defense. Torres also left for other fishery matters, according to the Torres administration.

Hocog, on the other hand, is reportedly on personal leave. His whereabouts and the reason for his leave were not disclosed by the administration.

Palacios also left the island for personal leave, but was expected to arrive late last night, after which he would assume the position of acting governor immediately.