Amata Mourns Passing of Longtime Friend, Gov. Palacios

July 23, 2025 Press Release Sends Condolences to the People of CNMI Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is mourning the passing of the Honorable Arnold Indalecio Palacios, Governor of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and honoring his life and respected legacy of leadership. Image “I am deeply saddened by the passing of a good friend in Governor Palacios. He is a longtime family friend, and he was a friend to American Samoa over the years. I’ve known him since his youth, and he was a close friend to my brothers. I send my heartfelt condolences to the people of the Northern Marianas, and to his dear family in this time of grief, who will be in my prayers. We think especially of First Lady Wella Palacios, their children, and entire family. Condolences also to my brother Milton Coleman, brother-in-law to the Governor’s father, and my niece, Marie, who worked closely with him as a Chief of Staff within his government. “He was a dedicated public servant, and his memory will be honored in CNMI and across the Pacific. Governor Palacios was a sincere leader, who desired the best for CNMI and the territories, and he led with purpose, compassion, and dignity as a statesman. He will hold an important place in CNMI’s history. Remarkably, he led at various times all the major roles, serving as Governor, Lt. Governor, Speaker of the House, President of the Senate. He worked for good fiscal decisions, promoting responsible caretaking of the islands, upholding values, and preserving the culture for the future. He set an excellent example for future leaders in the region. “I thank God for his exceptional life and his friendship over the years. He was a man of faith and belief in God, and we can take comfort in that. He will be deeply missed. God bless his family and the people of the Northern Marianas.” ### Issues : Foreign Affairs