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CNMI women candidates support one another
The 11 candidates running for office in this year’s election pose for a photo during the Soroptimist International Northern Marianas Island’s intimate event last Friday. (Kimberly A. Bautista)
Prompted by the large number of women candidates who have registered to run in this year’s election, the Soroptimist International Northern Marianas Island hosted last Friday an intimate forum for the candidates to acquaint them with one another and the public.
According to Soroptimist International Northern Marianas Island president-elect Donna Krum, the goal of the forum was to have the 11 female candidates in this year’s election mingle and realize that they have the same common goals as strong, driven women.
Moreover, Krum said, it was a chance to get to know the candidates as women—so the event was not at all politically motivated.
The women were given the opportunity to share their plans for the CNMI, if elected into office, and what drove them to run or seek re-election.
Many of the candidates shared the same view to nurture families and to prioritize the children of the CNMI.
According to Samantha Birmingham-Babauta, who is running for House representative in Precinct 1, she is motivated in wanting to make a difference in the CNMI’s healthcare system.
House of Representatives vice speaker Rep. Janet Maritita (R-Saipan) said that she is seeking re-election to continue to be the voice of children.
“I see the need of our children and that women can make the difference for these children,” she said.
Maritita said she is currently working on a bill that would allocate a portion of the Casino Business Gross Revenue tax to keep the Medicaid program running for the children of low-income families.
Rep. Alice Igitol (R-Saipan), who is also seeking re-election, said she is pushing for a more loving CNMI and women have more experience in nurturing a loving home.
Sheila Babauta, who is running for House representative for Precinct 4, said that women candidates, as a whole, are working toward a common goal, which is to come together and protect families in the CNMI.
Other candidates present at the get-together were Rita A. Sablan, who is running for lieutenant governor; Sen. Teresita Santos (R-Rota), who is currently seeking re-election; Juanita Mendiola; Edith Guerrero; Tina Sablan; and Isabel Matsunaga.
The event was the first of its kind to showcase the women candidates.
