For CNMI Attorney General
Michael Norita Evangelista
Justice. Integrity. Transparency.
The Office of the Attorney General belongs to the people of the Commonwealth.
Michael believes the Attorney General must remain independent, accountable, and committed to the Rule of Law — never allowing the power of the office to be weaponized for political or personal gain.
His commitment is simple:
A Guardian of Justice for the People.
Apply the Rule of Law fairly, equally, and transparently.
No public official should be above the law, and every resident of the Commonwealth deserves to be treated with dignity and fairness.
01.
Confront the Ice Epidemic
Michael will pursue a comprehensive strategy to reduce the devastating impact of crystal methamphetamine on CNMI families and communities. His priorities include:
- Aggressive prosecution of illegal drug distribution and related criminal activity
- Stronger partnerships with federal law enforcement
- Reviving and reinforcing the CNMI-DEA Task Force
- Expanding prevention and youth mentorship efforts
- Supporting rehabilitation and pathways to recovery
02.
Restore Accountability & Public Integrity
Public trust requires meaningful oversight. Michael will work to ensure that no public official or special interest is above the law by:
- Reestablishing the Public Integrity Task Force
- Strengthening cooperation with the Office of the Public Auditor and Department of Public Safety
- Supporting safe and confidential channels for reporting government misconduct
- Taking corruption and misuse of taxpayer funds seriously
03.
Build a Strong & Responsive Attorney General’s Office
A strong Attorney General’s Office begins with strong people. Michael will focus on:
- Recruiting and retaining experienced attorneys, investigators, and professional staff
- Supporting continuing education and professional development
- Mentoring young local prosecutors and staff
- Preserving institutional knowledge
- Promoting merit-based advancement and long-term public service
The goal is an Attorney General’s Office that is professional, effective, stable, and prepared to serve the Commonwealth.
04.
Strengthen Accountability & Transparency
Government should be accessible and responsive to the people it serves. Michael will:
- Enforce the Open Government Act
- Promote timely access to public records
- Improve public-information practices
- Reduce unnecessary delays and bureaucratic barriers
- Make government actions easier for residents to understand
Public records should be open and disclosed.
05.
Protect Families, Victims & Consumer
Michael believes our justice system must be compassionate toward victims while remaining firm against crime.
As Attorney General, he will prioritize:
- Strong enforcement against domestic violence
- Support and advocacy for survivors
- Cooperation with organizations serving victims of domestic and sexual violence
- Protection for victims of human trafficking
- Stronger enforcement against scams, price-gouging, deceptive practices, and businesses that prey on CNMI families
Michael Norita Evangelista brings extensive legal experience, public service, and community leadership to the race for Attorney General.
Juris Doctor
University of Idaho College of Law
Dean’s List
B.A. in Political Science
Washington State University
President’s List
A.A. in Liberal Arts
Northern Marianas College
Summa Cum Laude • President’s List
Michael’s legal practice has included:
- Criminal Defense
- Civil Litigation
- Corporate Law
- Administrative Law
- Land Transactions
He has been admitted to practice before courts including the:
- Supreme Court of the United States
- United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit
- U.S. District Court for the Northern Mariana Islands
- CNMI Supreme Court
- CNMI Superior Court
- Supreme Court of Guam
- Superior Court of Guam
Michael’s service includes:
- Former Assistant Attorney General
- More than 16 years in private legal practice
- Current Chairman, CNMI Zoning Board
- Former Chairman and current member, Northern Marianas College Board of Regents
- Service with the CNMI Bar Association