Arnold Palacios facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Arnold Palacios
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| 10th Governor of the Northern Mariana Islands | |
| In office January 9, 2023 – July 23, 2025 |
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| Lieutenant | David Apatang |
| Preceded by | Ralph Torres |
| Succeeded by | David Apatang |
| 12th Lieutenant Governor of the Northern Mariana Islands | |
| In office January 14, 2019 – January 9, 2023 |
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| Governor | Ralph Torres |
| Preceded by | Victor Hocog |
| Succeeded by | David Apatang |
| 19th President of the Northern Mariana Islands Senate | |
| In office January 10, 2017 – January 14, 2019 |
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| Preceded by | Frank Borja |
| Succeeded by | Victor Hocog |
| 13th Speaker of the Northern Mariana Islands House of Representatives | |
| In office January 14, 2008 – January 11, 2010 |
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| Preceded by | Oscar M. Babauta |
| Succeeded by | Froilan Tenorio |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
Arnold Indalecio Palacios
August 22, 1955 Saipan, Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands (now Northern Mariana Islands) |
| Died | July 23, 2025 (aged 69) Dededo, Guam |
| Political party | Republican (before 2021, 2024–2025) Independent (2021–2024) |
| Education | Portland State University (BS) |
Arnold Indalecio Palacios (August 22, 1955 – July 23, 2025) was an important leader from the Northern Mariana Islands. He served as the tenth Governor of the Northern Mariana Islands from 2023 until his passing in 2025. Before becoming governor, he was the 12th Lieutenant Governor of the Northern Mariana Islands from 2019 to 2023. He also served in both the Northern Mariana Islands Senate and the Northern Mariana Islands House of Representatives. Mr. Palacios was mostly a member of the Republican Party, but he made history by becoming the first independent candidate elected as governor.
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Early Life and Education
Arnold Palacios was born on August 22, 1955, on the island of Saipan. His father, Dr. Francisco T. Palacios, was also involved in important work for the islands. Arnold went to Portland State University and earned a degree in business. In the 1990s, he worked as the Director of Fish and Wildlife, helping to protect the natural environment of the islands.
A Career in Public Service
Arnold Palacios dedicated many years to serving the people of the Northern Mariana Islands.
Serving in the House of Representatives
He first represented District 3 in the Northern Mariana Islands House of Representatives. This district included parts of Saipan and the Northern Islands. In 2008, he became the Speaker of the House, which is a very important leadership role.
Working for the Environment
From 2010 to 2014, Mr. Palacios served as the Secretary of the Department of Lands and Natural Resources. In this role, he helped manage and protect the islands' land and natural resources under Governor Eloy Inos.
Becoming a Senator
In 2014, Arnold Palacios was elected to the Northern Mariana Islands Senate. He represented Saipan and became a Senator in 2015. During his time in the Senate, he was chosen by his fellow senators to be the Floor Leader.
Serving as Lieutenant Governor
In 2018, Governor Ralph Torres chose Arnold Palacios to be his running mate for the election. They won, and Mr. Palacios became the 12th Lieutenant Governor of the Northern Mariana Islands. He served in this role from 2019 to 2023.
Running for Governor
In 2021, Mr. Palacios decided to run for Governor himself. He chose Saipan mayor David M. Apatang as his running mate. He also made a big decision to run as an independent candidate, meaning he was not officially part of a major political party at that time.
In the 2022 election, he won, making history as the first independent candidate to become Governor of the Northern Mariana Islands. After winning, Governor Palacios brought people from different political backgrounds into his team to work together for the islands.
Governor of the Northern Mariana Islands
Arnold Palacios served as the tenth Governor of the Northern Mariana Islands starting in 2023. He worked hard to improve the lives of the people on the islands. In December 2024, he rejoined the Republican Party. He believed this decision would help bring more success and good policies to the islands.
Family Life
Arnold Palacios was married to Wella Sablan Palacios. They had four children together: Arnold Gerard, Nicole, Tiana, and Eric.
On July 23, 2025, Governor Palacios passed away at the age of 69. He was a dedicated public servant who worked tirelessly for the Northern Mariana Islands.
See Also
In Spanish: Arnold Indalecio Palacios para niños
- List of party switchers in the United States
