Discussion Megathread: Puerto Rico Statehood Referendum - Politics

Discussion Megathread: Puerto Rico Statehood Referendum
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Discussion Megathread: Puerto Rico Statehood Referendum

Posted: 11 Jun 2017 05:39 AM PDT

Introduction

Today, the territory of Puerto Rico is set to vote for the 5th time on its political status. Previous plebiscites, most recently held in 2012, have been inconclusive, with Congress choosing to ignore the results of the 2012 vote owing to a significant number of abstentions. Polls will be open from 8AM to 3PM Atlantic (Eastern) Time.

The current plebiscite comprises 3 options:

Statehood
Independence/Free Association
Status Quo/Commonwealth

In the event that independence obtains a plurality, a separate vote will be administered to determine whether full independence, or free association is preferred. Free association would involve an independent nation of Puerto Rico sharing certain ties with the United States, such as a shared currency, and a free trade agreement. The option of retaining the status quo was added upon the recommendation of the Trump Administration.

The results of the plebiscite will be interpreted by the US Congress, consistent with Congress' power under Article IV § 3 of the US Constitution. In previous plebiscites, Congress appears to have desired a margin of at least 50%+1 in favor of statehood before moving forward. Should greater than 50% of Puerto Ricans vote in favor of statehood, the territorial government has empowered the Governor to launch a Transition Committee to begin negotiations with the federal government on the issue of statehood.

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Results

submitted by /u/Isentrope
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Donald Trump's state visit to Britain put on hold

Posted: 11 Jun 2017 05:30 AM PDT