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Attao bids goodbye to politics
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Posted on Jul 26 2005
Veteran congressman Jesus T. Attao has formally announced his decision to retire from mainstream politics.
Attao, who has been elected as Precinct 3 congressman for 16 consecutive years, said this in a letter to Republican Party chair John S. Reyes.
“I am officially informing you that I have decided to retire rather than seek re-election for the 15th Commonwealth Legislature House of Representatives this coming November 5, 2005,” said Attao.
After 35 years in government service, Attao said it is time “to give our younger generation a chance to serve our people.”
“My wife Mona and family join me in extending our most sincere appreciation and dangkulo na si yu’us ma’ase to you…and to the officers of the GOP party for all the help and support during the past elections that resulted in 16 consecutive years of representing the people of the CNMI, and most especially the people of Precinct 3,” said the lawmaker.
Although not at the forefront politics, Attao said he would be “ready and willing” to assist the younger generation “to make the CNMI a better place to live.”
Attao is one of the closest supporter of gubernatorial candidate Rep. Heinz S. Hofschneider. Hofschneider is running as an independent with Rep. David M. Apatang in this year’s election.
Attao, a well-respected member of the House of Representatives, is reputed as a focused and very hardworking lawmaker.
During the 12th Legislature, he was commended by his colleagues for having authored the most number of bills and having the most number of legislations enacted into law.
Attao reportedly introduced 361 bills during his terms as congressman from the 1st to the 12th Legislatures, 51 of which had been signed into law.
House Resolution 12-120, introduced by then Rep. Thomas B. Pangelinan, said that Attao should be conferred the title “Prime Lawmaker” for his preeminent role in the creation of Commonwealth laws.
