I just think it is important that in the process of the review that the task force is making not only that the names of the members are there but the process in which regulations they are reviewing are there for public comment as well.

We are expecting your support because that is what Americans do for one another.

All of us, both here in Congress and democratically elected at the territorial level, must put aside politics in order to get down to real solutions.

I have requested that amount in Federal disaster assistance from the President of the United States.

What Puerto Rico needs is to get people and businesses back to work, or there will be no lasting recovery.

I have residents sleeping in cars.

The disaster inflicted by Irma and Maria present the Congress with a historic opportunity to reassess the way that public policy is dictated toward millions of its own citizens.

These inequalities need to be addressed by our Nation as Americans.

I am asking that the Congress waive the Virgin Islands' match for Medicaid over the next 3 years.

So, I am asking this Congress as well to do what is necessary to take care of its people.

I would challenge any of you to be hit by two Category 5 hurricanes within 2 weeks back-to-back hitting directly and see your infrastructure standing at the level that ours has.

We should not expect Puerto Rico to have a first class economy when we treat Puerto Ricans as second class citizens.

I would just ask that this Congress take its responsibility seriously and do what is necessary to support the territories.

The job of rebuilding Puerto Rico is the responsibility of its people and elected leaders, including myself.

The help Puerto Rico has received to date from Congress and the Administration has made a huge difference, and I know my people are grateful for this.

Statehood is necessary for Puerto Rico to implement transformative change.

the rapid repair is to help shelter people in place.

Puerto Ricans are just as much citizens of our country as are people in Florida, Texas, California, or any other state or territory.