After a medical incident and following medical evacuation to the Guam Regional Medical Center, Governor Arnold Palacios of the Northern Mariana Islands passed away in the late night of July 23.
“We are shocked and deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Governor Arnold Palacios,” Lou Leon Guerrero, the governor of Guam, said. “Arnold was a dear friend and a kind, compassionate leader. He represented his love for his island and his people in every conversation, every partnership, and every decision.”
All flags were declared to be flown at half-staff for the late Governor Arnold Palacios’ life and legacy.
Governor Albert Bryan Jr. of the United States Virgin Islands similarly offered condolences on the late Governor Palacios’ passing, along with his recollections in a statement.
“I had the honor of working closely with Governor Palacios on many of the challenges facing America’s island territories,” Governor Bryan Jr said. “I will always remember the time we spent together in Washington, where we stood side by side before the Department of the Interior and the White House, united with our fellow territorial governors to advocate for our communities.”
In a statement on July 24, the NMI Judiciary expressed positive sentiments in memory of the late Governor Arnold Palacios.
“Throughout his years in public service, Governor Palacios was a leader and statesman whose life was dedicated to the well-being of the Commonwealth and its people,” the statement said.
Following the news, David Mundo Apatang was sworn in on Thursday morning at 8:15 am in the governor’s conference room on Capital Hill. Lieutenant Governor Dennis James Camacho Mendiola was sworn in alongside him. NMI Chief Justice Alexandro Castro conducted and administered the oath of office to Governor Apatang.
Emotions heavy in the air, Chief Justice Castro hugged Governor Apatang once the oath concluded.
After recalling the late Governor Palacios waving to him as he was airlifted to the hospital, Governor Apatang made a promise.
“I will work my butt off to continue serving our people here in the Commonwealth,” Governor Apatang said.
He continued to share that he will carry on the late Governor Palacios’ work.
“We will continue to work together to follow his dreams and accomplish what we need to do for our people, just like he wants to do,” Governor Apatang said.
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek also issued a statement expressing her condolences, while Representative Kimberlyn King-Hinds (R) of the NMI expressed her condolences in a letter.
“Governor Palacios held a special place in Oregon’s heart as a proud alumnus of Portland State University, and his connection to our state created lasting bonds between Oregon and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands,” Governor Kotek said.
Representative Kimberlyn King-Hinds (R) of the NMI conveyed her support to Governor Apatang.
“I know this moment comes with immense weight, and I offer any assistance you may need as you help guide the Commonwealth forward,” Delegate Kimberlyn King-Hinds (R) of the NMI said. “In honoring Governor Palacios’ memory, I reaffirm my commitment to working together to ensure a steady and united voice for the CNMI.”
Various community members mourn the loss of the late Governor Palacios. “I just wish that he was able to finish whatever he started during his time as governor,” Seres Chan, a member of the local community, stated.
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