Saipan's Edith Deleon Guerrero makes history as first female president of the CNMI Senate

The passing of the gavel marked a historic moment -- Edith Deleon Guerrero became the CNMI's first Madame Senate President.

Monday as senators took their oath. 

Deleon Guerrero, a Democrat, is also the niece of the islands' first Senate President Larry De Leon Guerrero. Her photo will be added to the wall of photos made up of men who led the Senate. 

"It is a new beginning," she said. "We can no longer bring into the legislative halls political factions while we address the people's interest. We need to put that aside. politics is over." 

The former labor secretary has seen the fight for the people first-hand, from her seat, as some Senators got physical during sessions in the last year over disagreements. And she wants to set a respectful and professional tone in the legislature as they work with the new governor to open up the financial books. 

"There's numerous times when we receive information from the Secretary of Finance it would list down 'fund accounts,'" she said. "There are so many fund accounts that to me whoever is leading that particular office, that is going to be the next Secretary of Finance will need to have more transparent reporting."

She described the past two years in office as "lonely" being a minority member. But she's in charge now. And her first initiative aims to address the issue of Marianas Public Lands Trust funds meant for those of Northern Marianas Descent. 

"We have to roll up our sleeves and get to work," Deleon Guerrero said.