ESTADO DE PUERTO RICO?

Should Puerto Rico become a state?

By Addy Rogers Design By Metallica Miller

More than three million citizens live there, they pay American payroll taxes, and it’s been a territory since 1917. So why isn’t Puerto Rico a state? The answer is complicated.

A colony of Spain from the European discovery of America to 1898, the island has a rich history and puertorriqueños have a vibrant culture. As of now, its political status is awkward. It has an ambassador to Congress, but no voting members. Citizens pay taxes to fund programs like Medicaid, but they benefit unequally.

A national poll on statehood was conducted in November 2020. 52% voted for statehood, but 47% voted against it, and voter turnout was only 52%.

Puerto Rican opinion is split right down the middle. Some residents would rather see the island become an independent nation. The island has been a colony for more than 500 years, and proponents of independence want a shot at selfgoverning. Statehood would mean paying federal income taxes and the possibility of cultural changes.

Historically, US territories that have become states, such as Louisiana, have lost some of their own unique culture. In Louisiana’s case, French fell out of favor and was replaced by English. Some worry that Puerto Rico may stop speaking Spanish and sacrifice some of its unique culture if it gains statehood.

However, statehood would provide democratic and financial benefits. Fourtyfour percent of the island’s residents live in poverty. Statehood would provide better access to federal food and housing programs. Residents would also have true representation in Congress.

At the end of the day, Puerto Rico should have full control over its destiny, whether that’s as the 51st state or as a new country. A referendum in which all citizens vote could decide this. ¡Viva Puerto Rico!

Mask Mandate

Should masks be required?

By Lawrence Delano Design By Sam Dearing

Many people are sick and tired of the mask mandate. It has been going on for over a year. Who can blame them at this point. They fog up your glasses, they make it hard to talk, the list goes on. Eventually it gets to the point where it feels weird with the mask on and off. But COVID is like a vine. The more you just leave it be, the more it grows and becomes harder to cut. Each mask worn is a leaf clipped of that vine. Hopefully eventually that vine will shrivel up and die. Until we reach north of 90% vaccinations masks will be necessary. The mask really doesn’t bother me anymore except when I sprint I practically inhale the thing. Bottom line, the masks are a small price to pay. We can all take them off once everybody has a shot in the arm and the E.R. is nearly empty. Until then, keep the mask up and covering your nose.