Jose Serrano actually said...

There seems to be more and more statements coming forward every so often telling us that there is a need for the work done at the observator...

it will always, unless we make a special effort to save it and to keep it open, Arecibo will disappear because it is not a priority.

In this case having placed the observatory there was quite a boost years ago to the relationship between the United States and Puerto Rico.

the fact that they don't have two senators, and you know, in Puerto Rico's case seven members of Congress makes a big difference.