“The vote is the most powerful tool that people have in a democracy,” wrote political consultant Kevin Romero in a recent editorial. “It is not only a right, but a responsibility that defines the direction of an entire society. In the case of the territory of Puerto Rico, the vote takes on even more importance, since it is the means through which we express our collective aspirations, our desires for progress and the future we want to see built.”
The 2024 referendum
Romero is speaking more broadly about voting, about electing leaders. But he is writing in the context of a seventh referendum on Puerto Rico’s political status, coming up in November 5, 2024. Some voters are saying this plebiscite is hopeless, and some are even calling for a boycott. Romero is pointing out that throwing away your vote will silence your voice.
“In the upcoming elections,” Romero continues, “the importance of going out to vote cannot be underestimated. Puerto Rico is at a crucial point in its history, facing economic, social and structural challenges that require real, urgent and effective solutions.”
A divided government?
Romero makes an additional point. PR51st doesn’t support political parties; on the mainland, both national parties support statehood for Puerto Rico. We encourage those of you who vote in a state to vote for the candidates you believe will support Puerto Rico and Puerto Rico statehood most ably.
If you vote in Puerto Rico, we hope you will consider voting for a slate of public servants who will work together for a shared vision of justice and equality for Puerto Rico in the form of statehood. Polls show that people who identify with a number of different political parties nonetheless support statehood. A protest vote, a blank ballot, may give some voters a fleeting sense of having made a point. Will those votes give us a cohesive government team that can work together toward statehood?
“In order for the next government to implement the profound changes that are so needed, it is essential that the people elect a complete team: Governor, Resident Commissioner and Legislative team that work together under the same vision of progress,” Romero points out. “It is vital that each citizen understands that their vote has the power to define not only who will lead the destiny of the island, but also how quickly and efficiently the necessary reforms can be made. Only with a coherent government and with the support of all its branches will we be able to achieve the stated objectives and guarantee a future of stability, growth and prosperity for Puerto Rico. On November 5th, go out and vote!”
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