After showing an impressive outpouring of love and support for the people of Houston in the wake of Hurricane Irma, Americans are facing a major test to see if their generosity extends over the ocean to their fellow citizens in Puerto Rico.
Still in the dark after being hammered by Hurricane Maria, the island’s 3.5 million residents face a situation that could make Texas look like a soggy garden party.
Already in dire financial straits, the commonwealth is now grappling with its worst natural disaster in decades. But with a crisis could come some solutions to long-term questions about the island’s future. The issue of statehood has been punted or avoided by Congress and many presidents -- but it’s fundamentally puzzling that while Puerto Ricans are American as apple pie, they cannot vote in federal elections. Although it would be the 30th largest state in the union, Republicans are probably shuddering at the thought of two additional senators who would likely be Democrats as well as four or five new House members.
Regardless of Puerto Rico’s political future, New Yorkers should focus on a place that often feels like an extension of the city. Close to ten percent of the city’s population is Puerto Rican and although Dominicans have overtaken them in numbers in the five boroughs, their cultural and political presence is stronger than ever.
Mayor de Blasio and City Council Speaker Melissa Mark Viverito will speak from City Hall at noon to discuss the disaster. We’ll be showing it live on NY1. If you gave to Houston, it’s time to dig even deeper for San Juan.
Bob Hardt