Former Gov. Ralph DLG Torres will run for governor with Kagman High School Principal Benjamin M. Jones Jr. as his lieutenant governor candidate in the 2026 general election.
The Republican tandem will face the independent team of Rep. Blas Jonathan T. Attao and Speaker Edmund S. Villagomez.
On Monday, Torres and Jones submitted a joint letter to NMI Republican Party President Patrick Cepeda, formally expressing their intent to run under the GOP banner.
They said that after consulting with their families, supporters, and community members, they believe the Commonwealth is at a critical moment that requires experienced leadership.
“Our islands face serious economic challenges, rising costs, and growing concerns about the stability of our schools and opportunities for our families,” they said.
Their platform includes restoring economic stability, strengthening tourism and U.S. partnerships, supporting educators, and working toward reinstating a full five‑day school week to ensure consistent, high‑quality education for students.
They added that economic recovery and a strong education system are essential to supporting families, rebuilding the CNMI workforce, protecting retirees, and securing the Commonwealth’s long‑term future.
Torres and Jones described themselves as a balanced team combining executive experience and educational leadership. Torres brings years of administrative experience and established ties that could help guide economic recovery, while Jones brings a lifelong commitment to strengthening schools, protecting children, and serving the community.
Torres was elected lieutenant governor in 2014 and assumed the governorship in December 2015 following the death of Gov. Eloy S. Inos. He served until January 2023 after losing the 2022 runoff election to his then‑lieutenant governor, Arnold I. Palacios.
