The CNMI’s first delegate to Congress, Gregorio Sablan, will not seek re-election after 16 years in office.

“My love for the Marianas remains strong. But the time has come to pass this responsibility to a new representative the people will elect this November,” Sablan wrote in an open letter to local media.

He added, “And it is not because I have accomplished everything I wanted for the people of our islands. The work is far from done.”

He said he decided after deep personal examination with his wife, loved ones, and supporters.

“I will leave Congress believing I have been able to establish the Northern Mariana Islands as a respected member of the American political family,” Sablan wrote. “The people of the Marianas gave me this singular honor. I believe I have served you well. And I will be forever grateful.”