CNMI Economy & Federal Ties: CNMI congressional candidates clashed over whether the territory is getting enough economic benefit from the U.S. military build-up, with challenger Galvin Deleon Guerrero calling it a “raw deal” and incumbent Delegate Kimberlyn King-Hinds arguing collaboration is improving outcomes. Workforce & Education: Gubernatorial bets pitched a stronger school-to-work pipeline, including tighter alignment between local schools, Northern Marianas College/Tech, and employers to boost trades careers and livable wages. Airport Costs, Airline Fees: The Commonwealth Ports Authority approved its FY2027 plan, including a 15% increase in Saipan airport landing and rental fees, plus cost cuts and a 72-hour pay-period work schedule—aimed at closing an expected airport deficit. Delegate Debate on the Economy: In a separate CNMI SPJ debate segment, delegate candidates discussed the economy and federal relations, tying local cost pressures and layoffs to how Washington decisions land on island families. Disaster Relief: FEMA approved Disaster Unemployment Assistance for the Northern Mariana Islands totaling $10.16 million for people affected by Super Typhoon Sinlaku. Meta Settlement Spillover: The multistate Meta child-safety settlement includes the Northern Mariana Islands, with new limits and safeguards for Instagram/Facebook—part of a broader national push that could affect local tech and consumer policy conversations. Local Governance Funding: Gov. David Apatang signed a Saipan-area law appropriating $1.57M, including $991K for the NMI Settlement Fund’s 25% retiree pension payment and support for elections and cultural programs. Career Pathways: Saipan and Tinian launched Project H.A.F.A., placing nine participants into four-week workplace internships with local employers and agencies.