Puerto rico upholds statehood demand in contentious vote

Puerto Rico has voted to uphold its demand for statehood, in a contentious and closely watched referendum. The vote, which was held on November 3, 2020, saw a majority of Puerto Ricans (52.5%) vote in favor of becoming the 51st state of the United States.

The referendum was held amidst a backdrop of financial crisis, political instability, and a long-standing debate over the island's status. Puerto Rico has been a US territory since 1898, and has been seeking greater autonomy and recognition as a state for decades.

The vote was not without controversy, however. The referendum was criticized by some as being flawed and biased, as it did not include a question on independence or a third option, such as a sovereign nation. Additionally, the vote was marred by low turnout, with only about 22% of eligible voters casting ballots.

Despite these challenges, the vote is seen as a significant step forward for Puerto Rico's statehood movement. The island's governor, Wanda Vázquez, has pledged to work with the US Congress to pass legislation that would grant Puerto Rico statehood.

The vote comes at a critical time for Puerto Rico, which is still recovering from the devastating effects of Hurricane Maria in 2017. The island is facing a severe economic crisis, with a debt of over $70 billion and a population that has been declining due to emigration.

The US Congress has the final say on Puerto Rico's status, and it is unclear whether the vote will lead to statehood. However, the referendum is seen as a significant step forward for Puerto Rico's statehood movement, and could potentially pave the way for the island to become the 51st state of the United States.

Here are some key points about the vote:

• 52.5% of voters supported statehood, while 47.5% opposed it.
• The vote was held on November 3, 2020, with a turnout of about 22% of eligible voters.
• The referendum was criticized by some as being flawed and biased, as it did not include a question on independence or a third option.
• The vote is seen as a significant step forward for Puerto Rico's statehood movement, but it is unclear whether it will lead to statehood.
• The US Congress has the final say on Puerto Rico's status, and it is unclear whether the vote will be taken into consideration.

Overall, the vote is a significant development in the long-standing debate over Puerto Rico's status, and could potentially pave the way for the island to become the 51st state of the United States.