I spent 2012 working on the island and learned a great deal about what has gone on there. First, I worked with highly educated folks there, and ALL OF THEM want independence from the USA. However, the majority of the population there are dependent on the federal government for welfare, and they want to remain part of the USA and remain on the dole.
If there was ever a perfect example of where we were headed under Obama and why we did not want to continue on that path, the PR is a perfect example.
Also, the federal government through its trade negotiations have seriously harmed industry in the PR. The PR was a major producer of coffee, sugar cane, etc and our government created trade deals that destroyed that business in the PR, favoring deals with Brazil over the PR as one example.
So, the USA has destroyed business on the island, kept the people on welfare, and made them dependent.
So, I agree we should allow their independence. I think it would be better long term for the people on the island. That does not mean we walk away completely, we maintain a solid relationship with the PR.
Another thing, the folks on the island are not subjected to taxes as we are here in the USA. I do not understand how they get away with it, but they simply do not pay taxes like the 50 states.
Plus, super wealthy are moving there to avoid taxes that exist within the 50 states. The fellow I work with is doing just that at this very moment. Just not right what is going on.
Rather than developing 3rd world nations, we should invest that money into our own people, which includes the PR.
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