Northern Marianas US Representative Ivan Blanco has died in what police said was a "sudden death". He was 45-years-old.
The CNMI Department of Public Safety said Blanco just had lunch with his staff at the Aqua Resort Club on July 23 and, in the carpark asked staff for help.
Witnesses called 911 and Aqua Resort staff assisted with cardio-pulmonary resuscitation until medics arrived. Blanco was rushed to hospital where a doctor pronounced him dead.
CNMI Representative Ivan Blanco Photo: Saipan Tribune
Governor Ralph Torres ordered all flags in the CNMI to fly half-staff as a tribute.
In a statement, Torres said Blanco treated everyone with kindness and respect and worked hard to make a better Commonwealth.
The governor said Blanco was a true statesman. "He was humble, intelligent, and passionate, and he held a deep love for our islands and the people who call them home, especially his beloved Precinct 3," he said.
He added that Blanco was a gifted communicator that brought people together and knew how to make anyone feel welcome.
Before being elected in 2016, Blanco served as the late governor Eloy Inos' press secretary and then Torres', and before that worked in the CNMI Department of Commerce. Before moving to the CNMI, he held government positions in his native Chuuk.
Torres said he and Lieutenant Governor Arnold Palacios, along with their families and the Commonwealth, extend their deepest condolences to Blanco's wife Carmen, their children Lilly, JC, Pierre (deceased), Kide, Paige, and the entire Blanco family.
Guam Governor Lou Leon Guerrero and Lieutenant Governor Josh Tenorio also issued a statement, saying they are deeply saddened to hear of Blanco's passing.
The CNMI sports community mourned Blanco's passing as he was a benefactor of the islands' athletics, basketball, and traditional seafaring programmes.
The CNMI Election Commission will hold a special election to choose his replacement.
