GOP defends party fees

Republican Party Chair Joseph C. Reyes expressed satisfaction over the number of likely candidates seeking its nomination as he brushed off criticisms against the policy of requiring payment of fees upon submission of letter of intent.

Less than a dozen GOP members have met the deadline set by the party on the submission of the notices for the positions of governor, lieutenant governor, resident representative to the United States, senators and mayor for Saipan.

“We now have enough pool of candidates and these are the ones who are serious in running for and winning a public office,” Mr. Reyes told in an interview.

Among prominent politicians and incumbent officials courting the party’s endorsement include Lt. Gov. Jesus R. Sablan and Representative to Washington Juan N. Babauta for the gubernatorial race and their respective running mates, Senate Vice President Thomas P. Villagomez and Rep. Diego T. Benavente.

Former Lt. Gov. Pete A. Tenorio also handed in his letter of intent before the June 30 deadline for the Washington representative’s office , but Rep. Heinz S. Hofschneider, who earlier had announced his bid, did not, according to the chairman.

Mr. Hofschneider has reportedly backed out due to the high fees required by GOP to be paid by aspirants with their letters. The Washington office commands a $20,000 non-refundable fee, while the governor’s costs $30,000.

But Mr. Reyes justified the policy, noting that the party has provided flexibility in meeting the requirement by asking the election hopeful to pay such fees in increment, starting with a 20 percent deposit that comes with the letter.

The funds will also benefit the candidates as they will be used later during the election campaign, he added. For the Washington’s office, than means covering the three senatorial districts.

“I don’t think the $20,000 fee is expensive. It’s very reasonable,” said Mr. Reyes, explaining that such policy has been instituted by the Republicans in several elections for a long time now.

The party also needs the budget for its operational expenses and campaign materials, with some members serving as volunteers during elections.

“The money goes back to the candidates. They have a commitment and the party has the responsibility to support them in their election campaign,” he explained. “If we don’t require the fees, where will the party get its resources?”

Mr. Reyes said he is “a bit disappointed” by the criticisms against the policy, especially coming from Mr. Hofschneider whom he maintained should have known how it is like running for office being a veteran politician.

Had he submitted his letter of intent, he would have been informed on how the fee would have been met, he said. Mr. Hofschneider has not returned calls for his comment.

Meanwhile, Mr. Reyes said there is no extension of the initial deadline for the positions announced by the party to prevent charges of favoritism.

“Under my leadership, I’m taking an approach whereby I’m emphasizing responsibilities and what the party can do for the members,” he said.