Puerto Rico has been a part of the United States for well-over 100 years. Fast forward to today and the Island is a key component of the United States’ economy and national security. Continuing to keep Puerto Rico strong through smart policymaking should be a priority of federal lawmakers.
“Puerto Rico is the crown jewel of the Caribbean & home to many of the most patriotic Americans I know.”
Rep. Carlos Gimenez (R-FL)
“Puerto Ricans and people of Puerto Rican descent have had an important place in the American family for over a century.”
Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-MD)
“It was in Puerto Rico where I first learned about American values. It was in Puerto Rico where I learned the meaning behind the American flag and the central value of freedom and liberty.”
Rep. Maria Salazar (R-FL)
“…it [Puerto Rico] is home to fellow American citizens who have made tremendous contributions to our country.”
Secretary of State Marco Rubio
“It [Puerto Rico] is gorgeous. The people. The culture. The Island.”
Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-NY)
“…its [Puerto Rico’s] strong tradition of democracy provides leadership and stability in that region.”
President Ronald Reagan
“We [Puerto Ricans] are part of the American fabric.”
Gov. Jenniffer González-Colón (R-PR)
“We must focus on bringing [pharmaceutical] production home. It’s a public health safety issue, and it’s a national security issue.”
Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI)
“We Puerto Ricans are American citizens who serve in large numbers in the U.S. Military and pay numerous U.S. taxes.”
Rep. Darren Soto (D-FL)
“Puerto Rico is full of brave heroes who have been integral to our country’s success from the beginning.”
Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL)
“Our reliance on foreign supply chains for critical medical products has been a problem for decades.”
Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO)
The Opportunity
By strategically strengthening Puerto Rico’s economy, supply chains, and self-reliance, federal lawmakers have the opportunity to foster a more resilient, innovative, and globally competitive U.S. hub that reduces dependency on foreign suppliers and enhances overall national prosperity.
