May 2025
May was a month focused on economic recovery, healthcare equity, national security, education, and strengthening regional and international partnerships for the CNMI. Whether in Washington. or back home across Saipan, Tinian, and Rota, my work this month centered on making sure the needs of our islands were heard, understood, and acted upon at every level of government.
In Washington, I introduced and advanced legislation to improve healthcare access, including the Medicaid Improvement for Insular Areas Act and the TRAVEL Act to expand veteran medical services in the territories. I also voted to support major investments in Coast Guard operations and FAA modernization, strengthening border security, aviation safety, and critical infrastructure while reducing the federal deficit. Through committee markups and hearings, I pushed for policies that support small businesses, reduce regulatory burdens, and reflect the realities of island economies.
I pressed VA leadership on staffing vacancies, healthcare access, and promised services for the CNMI, securing progress on long-delayed positions and continued accountability. I also worked closely with FEMA, HUD, and other federal agencies to protect recovery funds, advance housing investments, and move long-stalled disaster projects forward.
Back home in the CNMI, I met with mayors, educators, healthcare leaders, business owners, students, artists, and community advocates. From celebrating student achievements and hosting the Congressional Art Competition, to supporting cultural preservation, disability advocacy, animal welfare, and wellness initiatives, May reinforced the importance of staying connected to the people behind the policies. I also welcomed regional partners from Guam, Japan, Micronesia, and across the Pacific, strengthening collaboration on education, tourism, security, and economic development.