In a recent development, President Donald Trump is reportedly being urged by members of Congress to consider granting independence to Puerto Rico, a move projected to save the United States a staggering $617.8 billion.
A seven-page draft executive order outlining this proposal has surfaced, suggesting a 21-month timeline for the island’s transition from a U.S. territory to a sovereign nation.
The draft, apparently crafted by congressional offices in collaboration with leaders of Puerto Rico’s secessionist movement, emphasizes the financial benefits of such a transition. The anticipated savings are based on projections that the U.S. would otherwise spend $1.37 trillion over the next 50 years supporting Puerto Rico, in addition to up to $8.6 billion in disaster relief.
Beyond the financial implications, the proposal aims to provide Puerto Rico with the necessary resources for economic self-sufficiency. It also calls for the establishment of an Executive Transition Commission, which would operate within the White House to oversee the island’s shift to independence. This commission would coordinate with Congress on legislative matters essential to the transition.
Notably, the draft proposes ending birthright citizenship for Puerto Ricans within the 21-month transition period. This aspect of the plan underscores the comprehensive nature of the proposed changes to the island’s political and social landscape.
Sources indicate that at least two members of Congress are in possession of the draft. Additionally, key figures such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, and Representative Tom McClintock have reportedly been briefed on the proposal.
Staffers from the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, which oversees U.S. territories, and a staffer for Representative Tom Kean have also engaged in discussions regarding the draft executive order.
This development follows President Trump’s recent executive order designating English as the official language of the United States, a decision that has raised concerns among Puerto Rican officials and advocates about its implications for the Spanish-speaking territory.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem recently visited Puerto Rico, pledging support as the island continues to recover from devastating hurricanes and persistent power outages. Her visit highlights the ongoing challenges Puerto Rico faces and the federal government’s role in addressing them.
The proposal for Puerto Rican independence has sparked a range of reactions. Advocates argue that independence would allow the island to chart its own course, free from federal oversight, and potentially lead to economic revitalization. They believe that self-determination could empower Puerto Ricans to implement policies tailored to their unique needs and aspirations.
Critics, however, express concerns about the potential economic and social upheaval that could accompany such a transition. They question whether Puerto Rico possesses the infrastructure and resources necessary to thrive as an independent nation and worry about the loss of U.S. citizenship for island residents.
From a fiscal perspective, supporters of the proposal highlight the substantial savings for the United States. Reducing federal expenditures by over $600 billion could reallocate resources to pressing domestic issues, strengthening the nation’s financial position.
Politically, this move aligns with a broader agenda of prioritizing American interests and reducing federal involvement in territories. It reflects a commitment to fiscal responsibility and a reevaluation of longstanding territorial relationships.
As discussions continue, the future of Puerto Rico remains uncertain. The proposal for independence presents both opportunities and challenges, and its potential impact on the island’s residents and the United States as a whole will be closely scrutinized in the coming months.
Keywords:
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Puerto Rico independence
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Donald Trump
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$617 billion savings
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Executive order
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Birthright citizenship
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U.S. territories
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Economic self-sufficiency
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Fiscal responsibility
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Congressional proposal
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English official language
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Homeland Security Secretary
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Puerto Rico secession
