Advancing Economic Strategy and Recovery

April 24, 2026 Newsletters Image On Wednesday, I met with Deldelp Medina, who is working with Kodep Ogumoro-Uludong, on the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) for the CNMI.  This plan, which must be submitted to the U.S. Economic Development Administration, will help guide our long-term economic recovery and infrastructure priorities.  As we continue recovering not only from Super Typhoon Yutu in 2018 but also from the recent impacts of Super Typhoon Sinlaku, our conversation focused on the urgent need to harden critical infrastructure, expand economic opportunities, and address ongoing challenges like depopulation and brain drain.  We also discussed how to better position the CNMI for federal funding, including opportunities that may require congressional action.  As one of the most remote and isolated U.S. jurisdictions, our needs are unique, and priorities like transportation, cost of living, utilities, child care, and elder care must be part of any serious strategy for growth.  We look forward to supporting efforts to engage stakeholders and share the CEDS widely as this important work moves forward. Issues : Economy