Puerto Rico Delegates Vote for Statehood

The NPR Network is providing live coverage from Chicago this week, focusing on the Democratic National Convention. A significant moment occurred during the roll call when delegates from Puerto Rico referred to the island as "the commonwealth of Puerto Rico and the next state of the United States" while casting their votes for Kamala Harris. This statement underscores the ongoing debate surrounding Puerto Rico's political status and its relationship with the U.S. Puerto Rico has been a U.S. territory since its acquisition in 1898, and its residents have long sought greater political representation. The aftermath of Hurricane Maria has intensified calls for statehood, as the disaster severely impacted the island's infrastructure and food supply. Puerto Ricans currently lack full voting rights in Congress and cannot participate in presidential elections, which has fueled the push for statehood. The quest for statehood is not the only contention among Puerto Ricans; there is also a significant movement advocating for full independence from the United States. This debate has historical roots dating back to the island's acquisition, with various referendums held in 2012, 2017, and 2020, all favoring statehood. However, despite these votes, Congress has yet to take action to grant Puerto Rico statehood. As the Democratic National Convention unfolds, the discussions surrounding Puerto Rico's status are likely to gain further attention, highlighting the complexities of its political future and the aspirations of its residents.