WASHINGTON, D.C. – For years, Puerto Ricans have voted in favor of statehood but no progress has been made on changing the island’s status. Governor Jenniffer Gonzalez believes Puerto Rico will be the next state; it’s just a matter of when.
“This is an issue of the people of Puerto Rico,” said Gov. Jenniffer Gonzalez during a press conference in Washington, D.C., advocating for statehood. “That’s why I’ve issued an executive order to mandate statehood as the official public policy on this issue because we’re not gonna hide and we’re not gonna be shy on defending the people’s choice.”
The island has voted several times in favor of leaving their territorial status behind and becoming the 51st state. The most recent was this past November election: 58 percent of voters favored statehood; 29 percent voted for independence; 12 percent voted for free association.
“I know President Trump has been asking to have Canada as the 51st state and I don’t have a problem with that but the people of Puerto Rico are ready and asking to become the 51st state first,” said the Governor.
Gonzalez said the island’s territory status has excluded them from crucial funding and federal programs.
“As an example, healthcare: many people who are living in the states may receive long term care, social security income,” said the Governor. “Those are not served on the island and that hinders the economic development of the island. That’s enough of a reason for people leaving the island. Same thing with transportation, education, and safety.”
Any change for Puerto Rico’s status needs congressional approval. Throughout the years bills have been introduced to determine the future of the island’s status, but nothing has made it too far. The Governor told us she will meet with members of congress to make this a priority.
“Even if somebody says no, we’re gonna continue to fight,” said the Governor. “This is not an issue of surrendering values or the right of freedom. This is not a political movement; this is a people’s movement.”
