Governor Fitial Is Apparently A Slow Learner

Governor Benigno Fitial is not going to let the history with lobbyist Jack Abramoff discourage him from protecting the interests of Tan Holdings the CNMI.  Despite serious financial woes, and an ongoing Justice Department investigation, the CNMI will be hiring a new lobbyist in Washington, DC.

This is despite a $51 million dollar shortfall that has already required a hiring freeze and travel ban.

The CNMI government is facing a potential shortfall of $51 million this fiscal year and Governor Benigno R. Fitial has instructed an immediate freeze in hiring and travel and cutting of all “unnecessary” expenditures.

Fitial is a former executive of Tan Holdings.  The role of Rep. Tom DeLay and his aides in Fitial's initial election as Speaker is under investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice.

No word on which lobbying firm has submitted the proposal.  Would anyone like to guess?