Let’s face it, it’s about time. The argument for generations has been that it’s a debt liability. And I absolutely agree. That was absolutely the case for a very long time. However, given the amount of debt we as a Nation have accrued, it would now seem hypocritical to continue the delay. I also, understand the amount of corruption among their leadership has also been a major deterrent. Which is why now is an ample time to make changes. Lawmakers will have to learn how to operate legitimately and who better then Ron Desantis to work with locals and officials to weed through the problem areas and establish a stable state. An additional argument for statehood is that it’s an extremely popular travel destination for mainlanders. With the right leaders and right investment, Puerto Rico can finally be the little gem she’s always been in our grand collection.
‘Lawmakers will have to learn how to operate legitimately.’
And just what would be the incentive for them to do that?
The lawmakers here and most of the population hate Trump and Republicans, and currently have no reason to change their behavior. There’s no cleaning up the corruption here without strict accountability of the billions of dollars Puerto Rico receives annually, and indictments for some politicians. Statehood would only create another leftist stronghold that would sway future elections and subvert any attempts at reform. Puerto Rico needs major investment in education, sciences and technology. Universities hand out scholarships like candy and many students are there only because it’s free. The U.S. needs to incentivize companies to manufacture their products here as the labor force is plentiful, and most Puerto Rican young people don’t really want to leave home as the family unit is strong here. Another issue of contention is the fact that cost of living is 20-35% higher than on the mainland.
Solving these issues will take a lot of money and effort, but if done correctly, Puerto Rico would become a great asset and not just a bottomless money pit. Jeanne is right about having the right leaders and investment that would
create a stable territory. Then Puerto Rico will be a great addition to the established states.
We either need to bring them into the fold and give them equal representation in congress or cut them loose to govern themselves.
I don’t disagree with what you’re saying. I understand what it’s become. I also believe there is motivation to clean up their governance. Good people who still own homes there and here. Family ties. Children’s futures. And as simple as the power grid situation. All motivating factors for the people. With Federal laws being enacted once they are finally accepted, it will lay a different groundwork for the people to vote accordingly and begin the changes they want and desperately need. We help so many. What good are we if we don’t help our own?
They are governing themselves. And many people are begging that they don’t because of the high corruption rate. Which is evident in the needs of the people. Again, if we can help others. What are good are we if we can’t help our own?
I totally disagree. Puerto Rico should be granted independence for the following reasons:
(1) There is a very strong section that wants independence. This will create enormous tension in the future and even violence.
(2) Puerto Rico is a gargantuan drain of financial resources on America. We gain nothing by keeping the island. The number of people on welfare is huge.
(3) It has its own language and culture.
(4) The political arrangement was supposed to be temporary, but the bureaucracies took over.
(5) The level of corruption there is huge.