"[4][5] The election of the CNMI's first third party lawmaker sent massive shockwaves throughout the territory and had aroused significant discussion for the future of the political landscape.

[6] This election was also defined by the 1997 Asian financial crisis, which saw as many as 2,000 businesses in the CNMI close down, severely affecting the ruling incumbent Republican party.

Saipan's incumbent Mayor, Republican Jose C. Sablan, announced that he would not seek reelection due to health issues.

[25] Republicans Frank Cepeda and Henry Sablan, and Democrat Juan Borja Tudela have expressed intention in seeking the Saipan mayoralty.

[27] Incumbent Tinian and Aguiguan Mayor, Republican Francisco M. Borja, announced his reelection bid[28] and won.