Late CNMI Governor Arnold Palacios Photo: Facebook / Office of Governor Arnold I. Palacios
Governor Arnold Indalecio Palacios passed away at the age of 69 late Wednesday night after a medical incident led him to collapse in his office on Capitol Hill on Saipan. He was immediately rushed to the Commonwealth Health Center and later was medically evacuated by a military helicopter to the Guam Regional Medical Center in Guam.
Acting governor David Apatang said it's with profound sorrow and deep sadness that he's announcing the untimely passing of Palacios. Apatang now becomes governor, and Senate President Dennis Mendiola takes over as lieutenant governor. Both will be sworn in immediately.
Apatang said Palacios passed away peacefully on the evening of Wednesday, July 23, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.
"A dedicated public servant for more than three decades, Gov Palacios served the people of the CNMI with unwavering commitment, compassion, and integrity. From his early service in the Legislature to his time as lieutenant governor, speaker of the House, president of the Senate, and ultimately as governor, he was a tireless advocate for good governance, fiscal responsibility, environmental stewardship, cultural preservation, and the well-being of all who call the Marianas home," he said in a statement.
Apatang added that Palacios leaves behind a legacy defined by resilience, perseverance, humility, visionary leadership, and a deep love for the Commonwealth and its people.
"He will be remembered as a unifier, a steady hand during times of challenge, and a leader who never wavered in his belief in the strength and resilience of the people he served."
He then recognises this is a difficult time for the Commonwealth and thus is offering his sincerest condolences and sympathy to first lady Wella Palacios and their children and families.
"I am deeply in sorrow and I join Wella and the family's grief during this time of mourning as we pray and remember my friend, Gov Palacios, for his sacrifice and life of public service for all."
Details regarding memorial services and public tributes will be announced in the coming days.
"The thoughts and prayers of the entire Commonwealth are with First Lady Wella Palacios, their children and grandchildren, the extended Palacios family, and all who mourn this immeasurable loss. As we grieve together, let us honor Governor Palacios by continuing to uphold the values he championed: unity, respect, and service," added Apatang.
The CNMI flag shall be flown at half-staff until further notice in solemn tribute to the life and service of Palacios, according to Apatang.
Palacios, the 10th governor of the CNMI, rose to the executive seat rooted in a legacy of public service and with the promise to rebuild trust in leadership.
He served alongside Lieutenant Governor David Apatang since January 2023.
Palacios had a long political career even before being elected governor in 2023. He previously served as the 12th lieutenant governor of the Commonwealth, serving alongside Gov. Ralph DLG Torres from January 2019 to January 2023.
As lieutenant governor, he oversaw the Office of Planning and Development, the Office of Grants Management, and the CNMI's permitting agencies and led policy initiatives on government efficiency, business permitting processes, and regulatory functions.
He also played an active role in the CNMI's relationship with the Federal Government with discussions on labor viability and proposed military projects in the Marianas.
Palacios also served as the Senate president during the 20th CNMI Legislature from January 2017 to January 2019 and as Senate vice president during the 19th CNMI Legislature from January 2015 to January 2017.
He has served four terms in the House of Representatives and served as speaker of the House of Representatives during the 16th CNMI Legislature from January 2008 to January 2010. He also served as the Secretary of Lands and Natural Resources from February 2012 to January 2015.
During his time in the Legislature, he championed legislation and policies on natural resources, environmental conservation, economic development, and federal relations. He was a member of the Governor's Section 902 Consultation team in 2016, when he helped articulate the CNMI's position on labor, immigration, and US military buildup proposals.
As Senate president, he created the Office of Planning and Development, establishing development objectives, standards, and principles for the CNMI's desired land use for residential, recreational, agricultural, commercial, and industrial needs.
Born on 22 August 1955, on Saipan, Palacios attended Mt Carmel School. He then enrolled at Portland State University in Oregon, earning his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration/Management.
