Votes Final, Bill Passes 223-169

UPDATE:  I am adding the YouTube video of Serrano, reading the final vote and used the gavel.  Cheers followed.

This information is in Spanish is on Primera Hora online newspaper, updated 11 minutes ago. 

The US House of Representatives approved 223-169 today, Thursday, the project establishing a mechanism in two parts so that Puerto Ricans can choose if they want to change their political status.

In the first stage would choose if they want Puerto Rico to remain a Commonwealth or take a different path. If you prefer to change that status, would have a second consultation with four options: Become US 51st. State, independence, acquire sovereignty but maintaining a partnership with the United States or keep their current relationship.

“I feel honoured to belong to a legislative body which has seen justice in listening to my people,” said the Resident Commissioner of the United States, Pedro Pierluisi, after the vote.  The Puerto Rico Democracy Act (H.R. 2499) project was presented by Pierluisi and sponsored by a bipartisan vote of 180 members of Congress.

Governor Fortuno expressed today that Puerto Rico begins a new era.  The project is now moving to the Senate.  “Are 112 years of essentially be citizens, receiving approximately half of the profits, receiving half of our dignity as American citizens…what we want is the opportunity - endorsed by Congress – so that our people can express themselves in its political status,” said Fortuno.

Pierluisi thanked the leadership the Democratic majority in the US House Of Representatives, Steny Hoyer, for having supported this effort.

He also thanked the Democratic congressmen Jose Serrano (D-NY), George Miller (CA), Debbie Wasserman-Schultz (FL) and Nick Rahall (WV).  Chairman of the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives, and the Republicans under the leadership of Mike Pence (IN), Dan Burton (IN), and Don Young (AK).

“We now move to the Senate with the confidence that the next body will oversee this project under the same foundation of justice and democratic rights: the consent of the governed,” he added.

Votes Final, Bill Passes 223-169

UPDATE:  I am adding the YouTube video of Serrano, reading the final vote and used the gavel.  Cheers followed.

This information is in Spanish is on Primera Hora online newspaper, updated 11 minutes ago. 

The US House of Representatives approved 223-169 today, Thursday, the project establishing a mechanism in two parts so that Puerto Ricans can choose if they want to change their political status.

In the first stage would choose if they want Puerto Rico to remain a Commonwealth or take a different path. If you prefer to change that status, would have a second consultation with four options: Become US 51st. State, independence, acquire sovereignty but maintaining a partnership with the United States or keep their current relationship.

“I feel honoured to belong to a legislative body which has seen justice in listening to my people,” said the Resident Commissioner of the United States, Pedro Pierluisi, after the vote.  The Puerto Rico Democracy Act (H.R. 2499) project was presented by Pierluisi and sponsored by a bipartisan vote of 180 members of Congress.

Governor Fortuno expressed today that Puerto Rico begins a new era.  The project is now moving to the Senate.  “Are 112 years of essentially be citizens, receiving approximately half of the profits, receiving half of our dignity as American citizens…what we want is the opportunity - endorsed by Congress – so that our people can express themselves in its political status,” said Fortuno.

Pierluisi thanked the leadership the Democratic majority in the US House Of Representatives, Steny Hoyer, for having supported this effort.

He also thanked the Democratic congressmen Jose Serrano (D-NY), George Miller (CA), Debbie Wasserman-Schultz (FL) and Nick Rahall (WV).  Chairman of the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives, and the Republicans under the leadership of Mike Pence (IN), Dan Burton (IN), and Don Young (AK).

“We now move to the Senate with the confidence that the next body will oversee this project under the same foundation of justice and democratic rights: the consent of the governed,” he added.

Afternoon C-SPAN Coverage On Puerto Rico’s Bill (Part 2)

I will open a thread on Puerto Rico’s current comments when C-SPAN debate ends (before vote) which it seems can go towards the evening, around 7 pm.  I will sum up their concerns, what they believe is happening in DC right now.  There are three newspapers right now online, so I can’t listen to PR’s talk radio.  I can only handle so much.  Many issues are valid on both sides of the aisle, and I want to post what is being said by DC Representatives.  I have tweeted Allahpundit of HotAir but will not visit their site for a while.  I don’t feel right now that I should battle against fellow Republicans.

===========================================================================

Rep. John Duncan (R-Tennessee) Opposes the bill. Quotes a newspaper, the Washington Times (I wrote about these two editorials, find them in two different posts).  Impact of billions on the federal budget, he says it’s rigged the election in support to statehood.  Just have a plebiscite with the options, it would be okay.

Jose Serrano (D-NY) So little is understood what it really does.  The strength is that it begins a process.  Because in a 112 years they have the chance to express themselves.  Congress does not impose any status on Puerto Rico.  Argument forcing statehood on Puerto Rico is not valid.  Puerto Ricans from 8 years old discuss this on a daily basis.  Why not on their own?  Because we have ignored it.  PR did not invade the US, we invaded PR on 1898.  If we tell them “do whatever you please”, we will ignore it.  If they hold the vote and ask for independence, or statehood, Congress will give PR the chance to make it a majority.  It will not be by just one vote.  The process will take years!  It’s not what people think.  We won’t allow 4 million American citizens to choose freely? That’s unamerican.  Discussed shortly the Commonwealth.  Said yes, vote for it.

Rep. Dan Lungren, (R-California) supports the bill.  Surprised about the reaction to this bill.  Used Utah as an example.  This does not undermine the Constitution of the US.  The Congress decides under what terms statehood will be accepted and under what conditions.  Luis Fortuno is not someone who shows little respect for the Constitution.  Pass this bill.

Nilda Velazquez – Listening to this argument, asks if he said “statehood bill”, to Mr. Lungren, he said no.  Asked how much time there’s on the floor. 

Del. Gregorio Sablan (D-Northern Mariana Islands).  We only had one choice-Commonwealth.  We go to war with the United States.  Give the people of Puerto Rico a chance.  Let’s pass this bill.

Rep. Steve King (R-Iowa)  Once the decision is made, there’s no going back.  When we get to the question from statehood.  Disagrees with Young, from Alaska.  Language is Spanish, very little understanding in English.  Showed statistics.  Puerto Rico must not be an exception. 

*I noticed Eric Cantor advising Utah’s Rep.)*

Eric Cantor (R-Virginia).  Puerto Rico is a Commonwealth.  It is an unnatural status, quoted by Ronald Reagan.  Explained Reagan’s support due to communism.  Hugo Chavez is doing the same unrest.  Quoted Reagan again.  We have worked to increase *Republican/Conservative goals*.  Our ideas are our best, consent of the governed.  These ideas are served as a magnet too.  The citizen of PR share values, believe in the American dream.  They deserve the opportunity to speak.  I would draft it differently.  Since it’s far from perfect.  Supports the bill.

Luis Gutierrez again-quoted other representatives.  Talked about the Founding Fathers.  Advocates for independence for Puerto Rico.  It’s just not 4M people on an island.  Go to that nation of people of Puerto Ricans.  They love and cherish Americans.  Mentioned the Puerto Rican Day Parade.  Brought up the Olympic team.  There are things intrinsic to the people of Puerto Rico.  Their only inealible rights is for those American citizens is to be independent from the United States.  The current situation is colonial and deplorable.  They have just as much right as independence to statehood.  They have come multiple times and mentioned vote against state. Quoted the Founding Fathers’ way of gathering as a Constitutional Convention.  That’s how the US Constitution was drafted, and that’s how Puerto Rico must find their people to choose and decide their final destiny.

Rep. Alan Grayson (D-FL) This legislation is about what is right and what is fair.  They are deprived of equal voting rights.  It would have two senators instead of none.  They cannot vote for a President.  Now they cannot do anything like that.  Congress decides what it’s good for PR and that is not fair.  I do not represent PR there’s a large representation in Florida.  They have the right of equal representation, summed up the bill with the three options.  Residents of PR have laid down their lives in defense of American democratic values for more than 90 years. 

Rep. Louie Gohmert (R-Texas).  Initial feeling is that they want to support what they support, Likes what Fortuno is doing what the US is doing and want to do right now.  This would be a good thing, if it wasn’t so divided between the three options.  Does not support it, he will vote no.

Rep. Nydia Velazquez, (D-NY) (closing argument) There is a reason why 2 of the 3 political parties are opposed to this bill and they are shut out of this process.  Mentioned US situation, we are denying self-determination.  This bill is not ready for prime-time.  Let’s give them the same respect we gave to Alaska, Hawaii, and please vote no to this bill.

Rep. Doc Hastings (R-Washington)  He welcomes the people of PR to communicate to us their wishes.  We are setting a precedent where we are asking a territory if they want statehood.  He looked back to the history of the rest of the states.  They had a plebiscite, and then Congress had to respond.  Tilts the plainview in favor of statehood and that has not been the case before.  They can have a plebiscite, a constitutional convention.  Self-government is hard.  We shouldn’t be party to be leaned in one way.  He will vote no.

Pedro Pierluisi (D-PR)  (closing) It is time for this Congress to hear the people of Puerto Rico.  Self-determination is to allow the people of PR to express their wishes on their political destiny.  The bill does exactly that.  The The only possible options that PR has are the following:  Commonwealth which is the same as what’s current.  Commonwealth of PA is a Commonwealth.  But it is also a state!  PR is a Territory and there’s a clause and has been interpreted by the Supreme Court has plenary powers to PR.  We don’t fail to exercise it on a daily basis.  Mentioned the disadvantages that PR has right now.  This plebiscite provides for that.  If the people of PR do not want a territory, ask them that!  Statehood, independence, free association-what it means?  Same as Palau, Marian Islands.  It’s only fair to ask them to express themselves.  Congress will always have the last word on it, as it should be.  I ask for your support.

Now will go over amendments.  Will close this thread.

Afternoon C-SPAN Coverage On Puerto Rico’s Bill (Part 2)

I will open a thread on Puerto Rico’s current comments when C-SPAN debate ends (before vote) which it seems can go towards the evening, around 7 pm.  I will sum up their concerns, what they believe is happening in DC right now.  There are three newspapers right now online, so I can’t listen to PR’s talk radio.  I can only handle so much.  Many issues are valid on both sides of the aisle, and I want to post what is being said by DC Representatives.  I have tweeted Allahpundit of HotAir but will not visit their site for a while.  I don’t feel right now that I should battle against fellow Republicans.

===========================================================================

Rep. John Duncan (R-Tennessee) Opposes the bill. Quotes a newspaper, the Washington Times (I wrote about these two editorials, find them in two different posts).  Impact of billions on the federal budget, he says it’s rigged the election in support to statehood.  Just have a plebiscite with the options, it would be okay.

Jose Serrano (D-NY) So little is understood what it really does.  The strength is that it begins a process.  Because in a 112 years they have the chance to express themselves.  Congress does not impose any status on Puerto Rico.  Argument forcing statehood on Puerto Rico is not valid.  Puerto Ricans from 8 years old discuss this on a daily basis.  Why not on their own?  Because we have ignored it.  PR did not invade the US, we invaded PR on 1898.  If we tell them “do whatever you please”, we will ignore it.  If they hold the vote and ask for independence, or statehood, Congress will give PR the chance to make it a majority.  It will not be by just one vote.  The process will take years!  It’s not what people think.  We won’t allow 4 million American citizens to choose freely? That’s unamerican.  Discussed shortly the Commonwealth.  Said yes, vote for it.

Rep. Dan Lungren, (R-California) supports the bill.  Surprised about the reaction to this bill.  Used Utah as an example.  This does not undermine the Constitution of the US.  The Congress decides under what terms statehood will be accepted and under what conditions.  Luis Fortuno is not someone who shows little respect for the Constitution.  Pass this bill.

Nilda Velazquez – Listening to this argument, asks if he said “statehood bill”, to Mr. Lungren, he said no.  Asked how much time there’s on the floor. 

Del. Gregorio Sablan (D-Northern Mariana Islands).  We only had one choice-Commonwealth.  We go to war with the United States.  Give the people of Puerto Rico a chance.  Let’s pass this bill.

Rep. Steve King (R-Iowa)  Once the decision is made, there’s no going back.  When we get to the question from statehood.  Disagrees with Young, from Alaska.  Language is Spanish, very little understanding in English.  Showed statistics.  Puerto Rico must not be an exception. 

*I noticed Eric Cantor advising Utah’s Rep.)*

Eric Cantor (R-Virginia).  Puerto Rico is a Commonwealth.  It is an unnatural status, quoted by Ronald Reagan.  Explained Reagan’s support due to communism.  Hugo Chavez is doing the same unrest.  Quoted Reagan again.  We have worked to increase *Republican/Conservative goals*.  Our ideas are our best, consent of the governed.  These ideas are served as a magnet too.  The citizen of PR share values, believe in the American dream.  They deserve the opportunity to speak.  I would draft it differently.  Since it’s far from perfect.  Supports the bill.

Luis Gutierrez again-quoted other representatives.  Talked about the Founding Fathers.  Advocates for independence for Puerto Rico.  It’s just not 4M people on an island.  Go to that nation of people of Puerto Ricans.  They love and cherish Americans.  Mentioned the Puerto Rican Day Parade.  Brought up the Olympic team.  There are things intrinsic to the people of Puerto Rico.  Their only inealible rights is for those American citizens is to be independent from the United States.  The current situation is colonial and deplorable.  They have just as much right as independence to statehood.  They have come multiple times and mentioned vote against state. Quoted the Founding Fathers’ way of gathering as a Constitutional Convention.  That’s how the US Constitution was drafted, and that’s how Puerto Rico must find their people to choose and decide their final destiny.

Rep. Alan Grayson (D-FL) This legislation is about what is right and what is fair.  They are deprived of equal voting rights.  It would have two senators instead of none.  They cannot vote for a President.  Now they cannot do anything like that.  Congress decides what it’s good for PR and that is not fair.  I do not represent PR there’s a large representation in Florida.  They have the right of equal representation, summed up the bill with the three options.  Residents of PR have laid down their lives in defense of American democratic values for more than 90 years. 

Rep. Louie Gohmert (R-Texas).  Initial feeling is that they want to support what they support, Likes what Fortuno is doing what the US is doing and want to do right now.  This would be a good thing, if it wasn’t so divided between the three options.  Does not support it, he will vote no.

Rep. Nydia Velazquez, (D-NY) (closing argument) There is a reason why 2 of the 3 political parties are opposed to this bill and they are shut out of this process.  Mentioned US situation, we are denying self-determination.  This bill is not ready for prime-time.  Let’s give them the same respect we gave to Alaska, Hawaii, and please vote no to this bill.

Rep. Doc Hastings (R-Washington)  He welcomes the people of PR to communicate to us their wishes.  We are setting a precedent where we are asking a territory if they want statehood.  He looked back to the history of the rest of the states.  They had a plebiscite, and then Congress had to respond.  Tilts the plainview in favor of statehood and that has not been the case before.  They can have a plebiscite, a constitutional convention.  Self-government is hard.  We shouldn’t be party to be leaned in one way.  He will vote no.

Pedro Pierluisi (D-PR)  (closing) It is time for this Congress to hear the people of Puerto Rico.  Self-determination is to allow the people of PR to express their wishes on their political destiny.  The bill does exactly that.  The The only possible options that PR has are the following:  Commonwealth which is the same as what’s current.  Commonwealth of PA is a Commonwealth.  But it is also a state!  PR is a Territory and there’s a clause and has been interpreted by the Supreme Court has plenary powers to PR.  We don’t fail to exercise it on a daily basis.  Mentioned the disadvantages that PR has right now.  This plebiscite provides for that.  If the people of PR do not want a territory, ask them that!  Statehood, independence, free association-what it means?  Same as Palau, Marian Islands.  It’s only fair to ask them to express themselves.  Congress will always have the last word on it, as it should be.  I ask for your support.

Now will go over amendments.  Will close this thread.

Continued Coverage C-SPAN On PR’s Bill, Afternoon (Part 1)

I apologize if I missed anybody prior; I was paying attention to Arizona’s situation.  Now to this:

Rep. Nick Rahall (D-West Virginia) – According to the Constitution, the bill is accurate and sums up the desired political status.  Nothing prejudges the legislation of these plebiscites.  It’s about a process, and depends on what happens on that process will determine the political status.

Rep. Doc Hastings (R-Washington) – Asked for more time, it was denied.  Opposes the bill.  Deviates the procedure for statehood compared to other state’s procedures.  Breaks a precedent.  AK and HI were asked for statehood only one time.  This bill is asking PR if they want to be a state, not the other way around.  Congress would bless statehood before the people of PR even voting on it.  He is sympathetic on PR and their political future.  Bill is not necessary for self-determination.  They have already done it, three times.  Brings costs of taxes to the US; CBO has not provided of a cost analysis.  Spending of 10 federal programs 4.5-7.5 billion dollars, and not counting the total.  Concerned about the cost, and what the cost would be.  Should not be passed.  Question of repositioning House seats.  Without increasing the size of the house, states could not add a seat, nor earn a seat after elections.  States would like to know whether the seats would add or lose a seat with the consequences-rightfully so.  Language issue – Allowed to be debate.  Democrats have blocked the language amendments.  Argues language requirements of English as official language.  These issues have to be debated before coming to a decision.

Rep. Nydia Velazquez (D-NY)  Yes, it’s about process.  Bill was drafted bi-laterally.  This legislation was designed to push the statehood agenda to the people of Puerto Rico.  Places members in an awkward position to meddle in PR affairs.  PR has said they don’t want this.  This is a disgrace.  House will push for another electoral process.  There will be a shell game with the Commonwealth status with this bill.  Appalling.  It’s the law of the land, no matter how much statehood advocates complain.  Becoming a state of the union has to be something that the people of Puerto Rico has to embraced.  I have advocated for a Constitutional Convention.  A sham of the process is not a valid Democratic option.  Vote no for this bill; principles over politics.

Rep. Nick Rahall (D-West Virginia) – Responds to Nydia Velazquez.  Constitutionally clear for AK to become state; PR is incorporated.  Different.  Sums up that it is unclear what are precisely the two main options that Puerto Ricans wish. 

Rep. Pedro Pierluisi (D-PR)  He rises in representation of the people of Puerto Rico.  I am the only one.  Has heard some complaints about process.  Process is crystal clear.  When we compare it against any other bill related to the status of Puerto Rico.  Commented that the process has been fair and has gone through the regular process, as any other bills.  Shows highest respect for the people of PR.  We are assuming our responsibility.  Two things must happen:  Puerto Rico must ask it, and Congress has to grant it.  Fair question that Congress has not asked Puerto Rico.  Treatment fell far short than that of HC bill (talks about Nydia V. and Luis G.).  Three options.  Unfairly characterized as a statehood bill.  This is not; is only one of the options, and is not binding to the Congress.  Talked about the military, and traveled to Afghanistan. The uniform is the same, and it’s not the same.  In the 21st Century is about time Congress asks 4 million persons.

Rep. Don Young (R-Alaska)  Rehash of what happened 12 years ago.  It’s inappropriate, wrong to recognized this is overdue.  112 years ago, Puerto Rico became Puerto Rico.  They were supposed to become a state back then.  Recapped of the process Alaska went through to become this bill.  It has been in Congress for 18 months.  He had a bill that he preferred, but now this is slightly different and that’s what the Governor wants.  Let it go forward, do what is fair.  Alaska was not required English language.  That does not hold us back nor makes us any less.  Give them their opportunity.  When that bridge happens, then we’ll cross it. (*FUNNY!*)

Nydia Velazquez asks how much time remains.  Her question is answered.  Yields to Mr. Rangel.

Rep. Charles Rangel (D-New York) -  Friend of PR for 39 years.  The only time they are treated as Americans, is when they are either drafted or volunteered in the armed forces.  Something has to be done.  This has consumed the island.  For the first time he has heard about free association.  He does not know about this, nor his constituents or fellow Congressmen.  He had an amendment and it was rejected. Their biggest argument (Puerto Rico) has been their status.  Go to the polls.  Commonwealth does not get a chance.  It’s not rejection of status.  We don’t need free association, when we don’t know what it means, nor do they.

Rep. Jason Chaffetz (R-Utah) No need to pass this bill.  People of PR voted on this, and don’t need it today.  If you want statehood, vote it straightforward.  I don’t believe I should manipulate what they would want.  Brings up the votes the people of the United States that were born and live in the US.

Rep. Luis Gutierrez (D-Illinois) Gets asked constantly why does he oppose statehood.  He is against a process that does not allow to choose in a free manner.  The proponents of statehood.  Mentioned the US Olympic team.  Would be happy that that happens.  He would like to see Puerto Rico as a 51st. State with Spanish as a first language.  Read the segment about free association.  Who controls immigration? Suspension of Medicare, Medicaid?  HE WANTS TO SEE US RELATIONS TO PUERTO RICO AS A SOVEREIGN NATION.  But he will not push his beliefs on the island. 

Rep. Doc Hastings (R-Washington) – Back and forth between Luis Gutierrez.  He recapped what happened last time, when “None of the above” was chosen last time.  Hastings (WA) Ought to know what we’re doing.  It might not be a straight statehood bill, but would give us blessing on the outcome of it.  Gutierrez (IL) Many Puerto Ricans cherish their American Citizenship, but don’t want to incorporate.  Maybe they love their language, culture, Olympic team, Miss Universe and that’s why they won’t want to join. 

Rep. Lamar Smith (R-Texas) Opposite of self-determination.  Disagrees with Congress-mandate.  Gutierrez agrees with him, and is against Congressional mandate.  Relates it to marriage.

Del. Madeleine Bordallo (D-Guam) supports the bill.  In Guam we are in the same situation. Therefore, she understands what Puerto Rico is going through.

Rep. Dan Burton (R-Indiana) They’re dying for this country, more than any of the states of the Union.  They know what this bill is, they want this (government of Puerto Rico), people from other states don’t know what Puerto Rico wants; this is not a Democrat or a Republican issue.  This process will work.  We ought to let them determine if they want to be a state, by God, too many have died already!

Rep. George Miller (D-California) Supports the bill.  Let’s let them have their voices heard. They are bound by Federal law.  Does not require any specific status, just if they wish is the status that they wish.  Send a message to PR that Congress welcomes them.  Fair process.

Rep. Tom McClintock , (R-California). Proponents have a problem.  Proponents want statehood but Puerto Rico does not want it.Calls it a rigged election process.  Would set off an even worse division amongst the people of PR.

Rep. lIleana Ros-Lehtinen (R-Florida)  Supports the bill.  Sums up the bill.  Speaks about the free association option, and explains the significance of the falsehood to attempt to fool the people of Puerto Rico.  This proposal has been soundly rejected.  It’s time that the people of PR give them a legitimate chance.

Rep. Lamar Smith (R-TX) Opposes the bill.  1-Rigs new referendum. 2-Allows Puerto Ricans outside the US to vote on this bill. 3- Political power play to favor Democrats.

Rep. Mike Pence, (R-Indiana) Supports the bill.  Gave PR’s history since 1898.  Believes 4 million American citizens should vote on this issue; ultimate decision falls with Congress.  Two quotes from Ronald Reagan on Puerto Rico.  PR has spread democracy through the military.  Hipocrisy of Congress to not recognize this.  Acknowledges the controversy in this issue.  Freedom-loving Americans should adopt it and allow the American citizens of Puerto Rico.  We would determine it as well.

Continued Coverage C-SPAN On PR’s Bill, Afternoon (Part 1)

I apologize if I missed anybody prior; I was paying attention to Arizona’s situation.  Now to this:

Rep. Nick Rahall (D-West Virginia) – According to the Constitution, the bill is accurate and sums up the desired political status.  Nothing prejudges the legislation of these plebiscites.  It’s about a process, and depends on what happens on that process will determine the political status.

Rep. Doc Hastings (R-Washington) – Asked for more time, it was denied.  Opposes the bill.  Deviates the procedure for statehood compared to other state’s procedures.  Breaks a precedent.  AK and HI were asked for statehood only one time.  This bill is asking PR if they want to be a state, not the other way around.  Congress would bless statehood before the people of PR even voting on it.  He is sympathetic on PR and their political future.  Bill is not necessary for self-determination.  They have already done it, three times.  Brings costs of taxes to the US; CBO has not provided of a cost analysis.  Spending of 10 federal programs 4.5-7.5 billion dollars, and not counting the total.  Concerned about the cost, and what the cost would be.  Should not be passed.  Question of repositioning House seats.  Without increasing the size of the house, states could not add a seat, nor earn a seat after elections.  States would like to know whether the seats would add or lose a seat with the consequences-rightfully so.  Language issue – Allowed to be debate.  Democrats have blocked the language amendments.  Argues language requirements of English as official language.  These issues have to be debated before coming to a decision.

Rep. Nydia Velazquez (D-NY)  Yes, it’s about process.  Bill was drafted bi-laterally.  This legislation was designed to push the statehood agenda to the people of Puerto Rico.  Places members in an awkward position to meddle in PR affairs.  PR has said they don’t want this.  This is a disgrace.  House will push for another electoral process.  There will be a shell game with the Commonwealth status with this bill.  Appalling.  It’s the law of the land, no matter how much statehood advocates complain.  Becoming a state of the union has to be something that the people of Puerto Rico has to embraced.  I have advocated for a Constitutional Convention.  A sham of the process is not a valid Democratic option.  Vote no for this bill; principles over politics.

Rep. Nick Rahall (D-West Virginia) – Responds to Nydia Velazquez.  Constitutionally clear for AK to become state; PR is incorporated.  Different.  Sums up that it is unclear what are precisely the two main options that Puerto Ricans wish. 

Rep. Pedro Pierluisi (D-PR)  He rises in representation of the people of Puerto Rico.  I am the only one.  Has heard some complaints about process.  Process is crystal clear.  When we compare it against any other bill related to the status of Puerto Rico.  Commented that the process has been fair and has gone through the regular process, as any other bills.  Shows highest respect for the people of PR.  We are assuming our responsibility.  Two things must happen:  Puerto Rico must ask it, and Congress has to grant it.  Fair question that Congress has not asked Puerto Rico.  Treatment fell far short than that of HC bill (talks about Nydia V. and Luis G.).  Three options.  Unfairly characterized as a statehood bill.  This is not; is only one of the options, and is not binding to the Congress.  Talked about the military, and traveled to Afghanistan. The uniform is the same, and it’s not the same.  In the 21st Century is about time Congress asks 4 million persons.

Rep. Don Young (R-Alaska)  Rehash of what happened 12 years ago.  It’s inappropriate, wrong to recognized this is overdue.  112 years ago, Puerto Rico became Puerto Rico.  They were supposed to become a state back then.  Recapped of the process Alaska went through to become this bill.  It has been in Congress for 18 months.  He had a bill that he preferred, but now this is slightly different and that’s what the Governor wants.  Let it go forward, do what is fair.  Alaska was not required English language.  That does not hold us back nor makes us any less.  Give them their opportunity.  When that bridge happens, then we’ll cross it. (*FUNNY!*)

Nydia Velazquez asks how much time remains.  Her question is answered.  Yields to Mr. Rangel.

Rep. Charles Rangel (D-New York) -  Friend of PR for 39 years.  The only time they are treated as Americans, is when they are either drafted or volunteered in the armed forces.  Something has to be done.  This has consumed the island.  For the first time he has heard about free association.  He does not know about this, nor his constituents or fellow Congressmen.  He had an amendment and it was rejected. Their biggest argument (Puerto Rico) has been their status.  Go to the polls.  Commonwealth does not get a chance.  It’s not rejection of status.  We don’t need free association, when we don’t know what it means, nor do they.

Rep. Jason Chaffetz (R-Utah) No need to pass this bill.  People of PR voted on this, and don’t need it today.  If you want statehood, vote it straightforward.  I don’t believe I should manipulate what they would want.  Brings up the votes the people of the United States that were born and live in the US.

Rep. Luis Gutierrez (D-Illinois) Gets asked constantly why does he oppose statehood.  He is against a process that does not allow to choose in a free manner.  The proponents of statehood.  Mentioned the US Olympic team.  Would be happy that that happens.  He would like to see Puerto Rico as a 51st. State with Spanish as a first language.  Read the segment about free association.  Who controls immigration? Suspension of Medicare, Medicaid?  HE WANTS TO SEE US RELATIONS TO PUERTO RICO AS A SOVEREIGN NATION.  But he will not push his beliefs on the island. 

Rep. Doc Hastings (R-Washington) – Back and forth between Luis Gutierrez.  He recapped what happened last time, when “None of the above” was chosen last time.  Hastings (WA) Ought to know what we’re doing.  It might not be a straight statehood bill, but would give us blessing on the outcome of it.  Gutierrez (IL) Many Puerto Ricans cherish their American Citizenship, but don’t want to incorporate.  Maybe they love their language, culture, Olympic team, Miss Universe and that’s why they won’t want to join. 

Rep. Lamar Smith (R-Texas) Opposite of self-determination.  Disagrees with Congress-mandate.  Gutierrez agrees with him, and is against Congressional mandate.  Relates it to marriage.

Del. Madeleine Bordallo (D-Guam) supports the bill.  In Guam we are in the same situation. Therefore, she understands what Puerto Rico is going through.

Rep. Dan Burton (R-Indiana) They’re dying for this country, more than any of the states of the Union.  They know what this bill is, they want this (government of Puerto Rico), people from other states don’t know what Puerto Rico wants; this is not a Democrat or a Republican issue.  This process will work.  We ought to let them determine if they want to be a state, by God, too many have died already!

Rep. George Miller (D-California) Supports the bill.  Let’s let them have their voices heard. They are bound by Federal law.  Does not require any specific status, just if they wish is the status that they wish.  Send a message to PR that Congress welcomes them.  Fair process.

Rep. Tom McClintock , (R-California). Proponents have a problem.  Proponents want statehood but Puerto Rico does not want it.Calls it a rigged election process.  Would set off an even worse division amongst the people of PR.

Rep. lIleana Ros-Lehtinen (R-Florida)  Supports the bill.  Sums up the bill.  Speaks about the free association option, and explains the significance of the falsehood to attempt to fool the people of Puerto Rico.  This proposal has been soundly rejected.  It’s time that the people of PR give them a legitimate chance.

Rep. Lamar Smith (R-TX) Opposes the bill.  1-Rigs new referendum. 2-Allows Puerto Ricans outside the US to vote on this bill. 3- Political power play to favor Democrats.

Rep. Mike Pence, (R-Indiana) Supports the bill.  Gave PR’s history since 1898.  Believes 4 million American citizens should vote on this issue; ultimate decision falls with Congress.  Two quotes from Ronald Reagan on Puerto Rico.  PR has spread democracy through the military.  Hipocrisy of Congress to not recognize this.  Acknowledges the controversy in this issue.  Freedom-loving Americans should adopt it and allow the American citizens of Puerto Rico.  We would determine it as well.