CNMI Democrats move deadline as only six submit letters of intent for ’26 polls

The Democratic Party of the Northern Mariana Islands has moved the deadline for submitting letters of intent for candidates wishing to run under the Democratic banner in the 2026 general elections.

The move comes after only six candidates submitted their letters of intent by the party’s original final filing deadline of Feb. 1, 2026, according to DPNMI chair Annie Picklesimer.

Among those who filed are incumbent Rep. Denita K. Yangetmai of Precinct 3 and Sen. Celina R. Babauta of the Third Senatorial District (Saipan).

Also running under the DPNMI slate are former representative and current Labor Secretary Leila F. Staffler, Kagman High School bilingual teacher Peter Muña, Francis Marie Guerrero Sablan, and Gilbert Boki Babauta.

Like Yangetmai, Staffler will run for Precinct 3 representative, while Muña, Sablan, and Babauta will throw their hats into the political ring for Precinct 5.

Picklesimer said that, so far, the Democrats have no candidates on the ticket for governor and lieutenant governor, as well as for U.S. delegate, noting, however, that a candidate has expressed interest in the latter post.

She added that the party is also awaiting letters of intent from potential mayoral candidates for Saipan, Tinian, Rota, and the Northern Islands, prompting the DPNMI’s decision to extend the filing deadline.

“We want to extend it—the deadline—for, you know, maybe there might be some interested individuals out there who are not ready yet,” Picklesimer said. “But, you know, maybe in the future, they might have a change of heart and join our party.”

Picklesimer said that regardless of whether the party fields a full slate in the 2026 general elections, one thing is certain—the local Democratic Party is ready to serve the people of the Commonwealth.

“Our candidates are very, very positive about running under the Democratic Party. They really are anxious to serve the people,” she said. “And if they are given a chance to be their representative, they're ready to tackle the issues. It's not going to be easy, but, you know, they will work hard to help the CNMI.”

Letters of intent should be submitted to Picklesimer at anniepi7839@gmail.com. Submissions may also be made at the DPNMI headquarters at the Marianas Business Plaza, Suite 316. A template for the 2026 Candidate Letter of Intent is available for download on the official NMI Democrats website.