Statement From NGA Chair Governor Jared Polis and Vice Chair Governor Kevin Stitt on the Passing of Northern Mariana Islands Governor Arnold I. Palacios

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The National Governors Association (NGA) extends its deepest condolences upon the passing of Governor Arnold I. Palacios of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

“We are profoundly saddened by the news of Governor Palacios’s passing. He was a dedicated public servant whose life’s work was marked by integrity, compassion, and unwavering commitment to his community.

“As Governor, he brought innovative leadership and a collaborative spirit to the NGA. His vision for a stronger, more resilient Northern Mariana Islands will continue to inspire us.

"On behalf of our nation’s governors, we extend our heartfelt sympathy to Governor Palacios’s family, the people of the Northern Mariana Islands, and all who were touched by his life and service.”

Governor Palacios began his public career in the Northern Mariana Islands House of Representatives, serving four terms and rising to Speaker from 2008 to 2010. He later served as Secretary of the Department of Lands and Natural Resources (2012–2015), spent two terms in the territorial Senate, rising to Senate President (2017–2019), before being elected Lieutenant Governor in 2018. In 2022, he made history by winning the gubernatorial race as the Commonwealth’s first independent governor, before rejoining the Republican Party in late 2024.