I agree with now-President Obama. This bill, 2499, doesn't deal with either issue, either citizenship or a transfer of Puerto Rico to a foreign nation.

The Popular Democratic Party believes in a political association with dignity, not colonial or territorial, between Puerto Rico and the United States.

I support statehood, because I believe the people of Puerto Rico have earned the right, should they choose to exercise it, to become full and equal citizens of the United States.

I disagree with you.

This strong bipartisan support is proof positive that Puerto Rico's status dilemma troubles men and women of conscience all along the political spectrum.

I want to begin by expressing my appreciation to Chairman Rahall. Both of us believe that after 111 years, it is imperative that the 111th Congress finally ask the people of Puerto Rico for their views on the island's future.

the real consensus here is that many of those people who don't want the people of Puerto Rico to have a real vote to decide our future want us and want this Committee to continue the delay of that purpose

I see that both of you are concerned with the fact that the bill doesn't specify or describe the current status as territorial, as a territory, as what it is.

the Resident Commissioner in Congress from Puerto Rico

The bill says, sovereignty in association with the United States.

I am describing statehood. There is nothing wrong with that, but it is just the language used.

I want to thank former Chairman Don Young, who has done as much as any member of this body to seek self-determination for the people of Puerto Rico.