a Resident Commissioner in Congress from the Territory of Puerto Rico.

There is nowhere to hide anymore, this Congress has the responsibility to act, and act now.

Let me be clear, there is nothing that this other legislation will offer to Puerto Rico that has not already been discussed in 123 years.

those margins are not good enough for the people of Puerto Rico to establish their vote for statehood.

I ask you, both on behalf of your fellow Americans in Puerto Rico, and as a clear way to strengthen democracy for all Americans, to respond to the will of the people of Puerto Rico by approving legislation that will initiate the admission…

Let me be clear. There is nothing that this other bill, or this other legislation, will offer Puerto Rico that has not been already discussed in 123 years. It is nothing new.

The status quo is dead and the democratic will of the people of Puerto Rico is undeniable.

Some argue that the result of November of last year was an invalid or illegitimate mandate for statehood...

We respect them and are aware of all Congressmen and women's authority to file bills that transcend their districts' limits.

That bill is truly a slap in the face to Puerto Rican voters!

They would be our gladiators. They would be fighting for us whenever we face a natural disaster.

we are answering to that request and that request of statehood and equality, with that stated bill.

After all, isn't the American Experience about freedom and equality?

The time for patient study, delay tactics, committees, and task forces is over. Democracy has spoken. Let her live!

I am the one elected to represent them, and I am doing so by filing this bill.

Is it required to have a federally sponsored referendum as a prerequisite for Congress to act?

This bill was introduced earlier this year by Congresswoman Jenniffer Gonzalez-Colon (R-PR-AL) and Congressman Darren Soto (D-FL-9)

The voters have spoken clearly, and it is time for Congress to accept the results.