the time to do it is now.

it clearly offends the values of American democracy in the 21st century.

Congress has never formally consulted us about our preferences regarding the island's political status.

It is time to tear down that wall. I urge the Committee to favorably consider H.R. 2499.

The right of the U.S. citizens of Puerto Rico to decide their political future was one of my priorities.

It is time for Congress to provide the people of Puerto Rico with an unambiguous path toward permanently resolving its political status.

However, if we decide for change, there are only three viable options... One is statehood... independence... and then the third one is nationhood in free association with the United States.

It is not through conventions, but through a direct vote.

That is morally wrong in the 21st century.

I really would hope that there is a sense of neutrality, so there is no--I don't know what is a better word, I am still learning how to speak English--interference, I suppose, undue influence I think is a better word, but that ultimately…

I believe that the reason why we come here is because the 4 million U.S. citizens that I represent deserve a fair playing field to express their feelings as to their status, and only Congress can provide for that.