CNMI Gov. Arnold Palacios withdrew the appointment of Joseph Rios for commerce secretary.

He informed the legislature of his withdrawal without giving any reason, though he saidhe would re-submit Rios' appointment at a later date.

As of Monday, Frank Cabrera is now the acting commerce chief. He's worked in the workers compensation commission as its director for over two decades after working at the Dept. of Public Safety and private sector. 

"Pretty much I am just getting my feet wet on what is the role and direction of what we will be doing but definitely we want to continue on with our goals and mission to proceed on with the fundamental development," he said. 

Cabrera said the work ahead is "tough" and that it's up to the administration to appoint him for Senate confirmation.