Puerto Ricans and U.S. Presidential Elections: Voting Rights and Controversies
Voting Rights and Political Exclusion
Can Puerto Ricans Vote in U.S. Presidential Elections?
Voters in Puerto Rico are unable to cast ballots in U.S. presidential elections, a fact highlighted by the offensive remark made about the island during a recent rally. Despite being U.S. citizens, Puerto Rican residents living on the island face this exclusion. However, Puerto Ricans living in any of the 50 states or Washington, D.C., have the right to vote in presidential elections.
According to the Pew Research Center, Puerto Ricans were the second-largest Hispanic voting group in the mainland U.S. as of 2021, with nearly 6 million voters living in these areas.
Tony Hinchcliffe’s Controversial Comments
Pennsylvania, with its sizable Puerto Rican population, stands as a particularly significant state. Days before the election, the Trump campaign is distancing itself from comedian Tony Hinchcliffe, known by his stage name as Kill Tony, whose racist remarks at Trump’s rally have sullied the event.
Hinchcliffe’s offensive joke, targeting Puerto Rico as "a floating island of garbage," has generated substantial controversy. In a statement, senior adviser Danielle Alvarez for Trump’s campaign clarified, "This joke does not reflect the views of President Trump or the campaign."
Why Puerto Rico Is Not a State
The debate surrounding Puerto Rico’s statehood has spanned decades. The island became a U.S. territory following the Spanish-American War in 1898. Congress’s reluctance to grant statehood is driven by concerns over the potential economic costs and shifts in political power. If Puerto Rico were to become a state, it would gain proportional representation in the House and be represented by two senators.
Recent referendums toward Puerto Rico’s status have shown a growing support for statehood, with over 50% of voters favoring this in the 2020 referendum.
U.S. Territorial Exclusions from Presidential Elections
Puerto Rico is not the only U.S. territory excluded from presidential elections. American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands also face similar restrictions. Residents of these territories can vote in federal elections if they live in the mainland U.S., except for American Samoa residents, who are U.S. nationals and cannot vote in federal elections.
Call to Action
Understanding and addressing the complexities surrounding Puerto Rican voting rights and statehood status is crucial for ensuring equitable representation. As the 2024 election approaches, both political figures and citizens should engage in open dialogues about the future of Puerto Rico and its people. If you’re a Puerto Rican living in the U.S., ensuring your voice is heard through voting is vital. If you’re an ally, promoting a dispassionate discussion about statehood and voting rights can bring about meaningful change.
Election Awareness
Informed voting is the cornerstone of a successful democracy. Staying educated and engaged with political debates and news can significantly impact the future of the U.S. and its territories. Consider attending local town halls, reading up on candidates’ platforms, and encouraging your friends and family to vote this election. Your participation, informed by sound knowledge, is key to shaping a better future for the country and its territories.