Local GOP remains behind Trump

Gov. Ralph DLG Torres said the local Republican Party remains behind GOP presidential candidate Donald Trump despite the vulgar language he used in a leaked audio recording of his conversation with then-television host Billy Bush. Trump is in a heated battle with Democratic Party nominee and former State Secretary Hillary Clinton with the seat at the Oval Office at stake.

Bush is a member of the Bush political family with former presidents George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush, his uncle and cousin respectively. Ex-Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who also sought the Republican presidential nomination, is also his cousin.

Torres said yes when asked if the CNMI Republican Party still supports Trump’s presidential bid. He, however, added that the local GOP does not tolerate Trump’s comments toward women in the audiotape.

“I’m not happy with the comments that came out, although, the incident happened almost 10 years ago,” said Torres, who added that the issues of the U.S. territories would be addressed under a Trump presidency.

“But, nevertheless, our issues to be addressed at the national level has always been our goal. Myself and Gov. Eddie Calvo (Guam), that’s the only opportunity for us to be co-chair of [a committee for] Pacific Islanders.”

“It is really a milestone for us [U.S. territories] to be acknowledged. We never had that acknowledgement before. I may not agree with the comments made but, nevertheless, our issues are still there and need to be addressed at the national level,” Torres said.

The GOP, during the national convention last July, unveiled plans to appoint an advisory committee consisting of representatives from the five U.S. territories that was among those included and unanimously adopted in their party platform.

Rep. Joseph Leepan T. Guerrero (R-Saipan), another local GOP stalwart, said Trump’s statements were uncalled for. “I may not be in the position to talk but I don’t tolerate what he said and those kinds of actions.”

“It is not appropriate. We treat women with utmost respect and dignity. They are not brought up in this world for that kind of vile language and demeanor. It was so sad that he had to say something like that. It is uncalled for to hear that statement from him,” Guerrero added.

The local GOP, in a statement on Monday, condemned Trump’s remarks in the 2005 recording that surfaced last week. The audio conversation with Billy Bush had Trump saying that he could get away with forcing himself on women since he’s a celebrity.