Could Florida's Close Ties and Support of Puerto Rico Help Deliver Statehood?

Florida and Puerto Rico share a significant friendship, one established and built through deep economic ties but also support during difficult times. Time and again, Florida has helped Puerto Rico through natural disasters including Hurricane Maria and other hardships that have faced the island. Given that the Sunshine State is the closest U.S. state to Puerto Rico, and over a million Puerto Ricans call Florida home, their relationship is like no other. On Election Day, Puerto Ricans are set to vote on statehood, so could the relationship between Florida and the territory determine a 51st state for the United States?

On November 5th, Puerto Ricans on the island will cast a symbolic vote for the presidency. As well, they will decide whether or not Puerto Rico will achieve statehood. Despite opposition to the statehood narrative from a vocal minority on the island, the close relationship between Florida and Puerto Rico could be indicative of what's to come.

In the aftermath of Hurricane Maria in 2017, Puerto Rico was devastated, and Puerto Ricans in a time of need. Florida stepped in and provided much-needed assistance, which included organizing relief efforts, raising funds, and working with local and federal agencies to provide food, shelter, and medical aid for Puerto Ricans in need. Florida also deployed the Florida National Guard to assist in Puerto Rico's recovery.

Floridians faced their time of need as a result of Hurricane Milton. As the state prepared for Hurricane Milton to make landfall, Puerto Rican leaders on the island, which included current Resident Commissioner and Gubernatorial candidate Jennifer González (R) and current Governor Pedro Pierluisi (D) were closely monitoring the hurricane.

“We understand the difficulties that these situations bring, and I want to reaffirm that Puerto Rico stands ready to offer any and every necessary support. We will stay vigilant regarding the hurricane’s effects and, if required, mobilize resources and assistance," stated Governor Pedro Pierluisi.

“All our prayers are with the brothers and sisters who live in the state of Florida. Puerto Rico knows what it is like to face hurricanes and difficult situations. We are very aware of the passage of Hurricane Milton. In this time, let us put everything in God's hands and seek safety above all," adds Gubernatorial candidate and Rep. Jenniffer Gonzalez.

The ties between the state and territory do not stop at cooperation through natural disasters.

Puerto Rico has also helped bolster the successes of Florida, which includes vast cultural, political, and economic support through the years. Puerto Ricans have significantly contributed to Florida's business growth, workforce, and political landscape, which extends to a rise in Puerto Rican residents in areas like Tampa and Orlando.

Puerto Rican Americans to call Florida home range from internationally known superstar athletes like Alex Rodriguez to thousands of small business owners and vital service workers. And their impact on local, state and federal government cannot be understated as they are the second most powerful Hispanic voting bloc in the state.

While the U.S. will have to see if Puerto Ricans vote for statehood on November 5th, there's no question that there is bipartisan support for the move, a decision that could continue to impact the Sunshine State for years to come.