What is a retention vote?

Instead of choosing between candidates, you vote YES or NO on whether each judge stays on the court for another term. A judge who doesn't get enough YES votes (a simple majority in most states) is removed, and the seat is filled by appointment.

The general election is Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Early voting and mail-ballot deadlines vary by state; check your state or county election office.

Northern Mariana Islands CNMI Supreme Court Justice — retention: Alexandro Cruz Castro

Retention election · November 3, 2026

What this office does

A justice of the state's highest court. Has the final word on what the state constitution and state laws mean, and oversees the state's courts and lawyers. A retention vote asks only whether the justice should stay for another term.

Judges on the ballot

A separate Yes/No vote on each judge: YES keeps them on the court for another term.

Alexandro Cruz Castro

Appointed by — · official biography

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Quick answers

What is a retention vote?: Instead of choosing between candidates, you vote YES or NO on whether each judge stays on the court for another term. A judge who doesn't get enough YES votes (a simple majority in most states) is removed, and the seat is filled by appointment.
Which judges are up for retention?: Alexandro Cruz Castro.
When is the vote?: The general election is Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Early voting and mail-ballot deadlines vary by state; check your state or county election office.

Not sure how to decide? Read our nonpartisan guide to the Northern Mariana Islands ballot.

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