Thread by @RepAOC

We support a process of self-determination for Puerto Rico. Why?

1. Statehood isn't the only option. There's also independence or free association.

2. It's not clear which of these options a majority of Puerto Ricans support.

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A 2017 statehood ballot referendum had 23% voter turnout (it's usually 80%) after a boycott by all opposition political parties.

The 2020 referendum got 52% support, but asked a single yes-or-no question: Should P.R. become a state? Which is not representative of other options.

3. Congress imposing any one option on Puerto Rico would be the culmination of colonization.

Choosing for the Puerto Rican people rather than letting them determine their own fate.

4. The issue of D.C. & Puerto Rican statehood are not the same.

Puerto Rico was annexed as a colony in 1898. Puerto Ricans have a distinct cultural identity and the island has fought against colonization since it was acquired by the Spanish.

5. A process of self-determination, and specifically the bill we put forward, was informed and driven by grassroots groups on the Island.

It's also supported by more than 80 progressive groups across the country.

Here's how self-determination would work:

1. Puerto Ricans elect delegates to a 'status convention,' where they come up with a solution for the island’s territorial status - whether that be statehood, independence, a free association or anything other than its current status.

2. A 'bilateral negotiating commission' consisting of several Congress members & the presidential administration will provide advice to the delegates.

3. A referendum vote will then be held on the island to allow Puerto Ricans to vote on the delegates' recommendations.

4. If the referendum is approved by the people of Puerto Rico, Congress shall ratify their choice.

Our bill is status-agnostic. If after undergoing the process, the triumphant option is statehood, we will not oppose.