Attorney General Edward E. Manibusan said Monday he will not seek reelection in 2026, ending a 12‑year tenure as the Commonwealth’s first elected attorney general.
Manibusan said the decision followed “much reflection and prayer,” and that he leaves office “with peace, gratitude, and optimism.” He said the people of the CNMI entrusted him with building an independent constitutional office grounded in the rule of law, and that the OAG is “stronger, more independent, and better prepared” than when he took office.
He reflected on the challenges of establishing the office from scratch — creating policies, procedures, and a culture rooted in integrity and fact‑based decision‑making. He cited strengthened criminal prosecutions, expanded consumer protection, improved victim services, protection of children and vulnerable families, and defending the Commonwealth’s legal interests. He also pointed to multistate partnerships that brought opioid settlement funds to the CNMI and resolved longstanding tobacco allocation disputes, along with modernization efforts and staff development.
Manibusan acknowledged difficult periods, including typhoons, the pandemic, telecommunications failures, and economic instability, but said the office remained committed to its mission and demonstrated that “even during the most difficult times, the rule of law must remain our constant guide.”
He thanked OAG employees, his family, and residents who recently circulated a petition urging him to run again, calling their support “humbling.”
Although stepping away from elected office, Manibusan said his commitment to the Commonwealth remains unchanged and that public service “is not the only way to serve.”
The attorney general became an independently elected, nonpartisan position after a 2014 constitutional amendment. Before the change the attorney general is appointed by the governor. Manibusan won the inaugural election that year and was re‑elected in 2018 and 2022. His current term ends in January 2027.
