Senate president: Remarks didn’t indicate he’s seeking the governorship

By THE STAR STAFF

Senate President Thomas Rivera Schatz denied on Wednesday that his statement regarding the departure of La Fortaleza Chief of Staff Francisco Domenech Fernández and Deputy Chief of Staff Itza García Rodríguez was driven by an ambition to run for governor; instead, he asserted that his remarks aimed to foster a new phase of collaboration between the executive branch and the Legislative Assembly.

“Some people, seeking to add a political spin or imply a bid for office, tried to portray this as a political strategy aimed in that direction -- but nothing could be further from the truth,” Rivera Schatz stated at the start of a press conference.

The Senate leader said his message sought to promote a “fresh start” to address issues such as permit system reform, tax reform, the energy crisis, the potable water supply, protections for the elderly, the strengthening of municipalities, and the adoption of artificial intelligence tools, in addition to improving communication between the branches of government.

Rivera Schatz maintained that the departures of Domenech and García were the result of an investigation being conducted by the Panel on the Independent Special Prosecutor, rather than a voluntary decision by either official.

“They […] are not leaving -- as some have tried to suggest -- with honors and accolades,” he said. “They are leaving because they have been implicated in illegal and unethical acts. That is the irrefutable reality.”

During the exchange with the press, he criticized the fact that Domenech would remain in office until Aug. 7 and García until Aug. 15, the dates their resignations take effect, which he said he believes “is also an error in judgment” and that “they should have left immediately.”

When asked directly if he would seek the gubernatorial nomination in 2028, Rivera Schatz avoided ruling it out, though he insisted that the issue was not currently on the agenda.

“No one can rule anything out. I’m in no rush,” he said. “We have all the time in the world. Political parties need to place people in positions where they have the capacity to win and to govern.”