During the inauguration of Donald Trump for his second term as president of the United States, the governor of Puerto Rico, Jenniffer González, expressed her hope that under the Republican administration, access to federal funds for the Caribbean island would be expedited.
In statements to Metro World News, González mentioned that Trump has approved the largest amount of federal funds for Puerto Rico in history, although some of these have not yet been used, focusing on recovery after Hurricanes Irma and Maria.
The governor highlighted the importance of manufacturing in Puerto Rico, especially in sectors such as pharmaceuticals and electronics, emphasizing the president's intention to promote reshoring, that is, the return of manufacturing to U.S. territory.
González also emphasized the majority support for statehood on the island, with a recent referendum in which nearly 60% of voters expressed support for that status. This result, according to the governor, signals an influx of young people to Puerto Rico and an opportunity for economic growth.
Additionally, the governor highlighted Puerto Rico's potential as a tourist and cultural destination, as well as in the musical field, where artists such as Daddy Yankee, Luis Fonsi, and Bad Bunny have brought the island's name to a global level.
Regarding Puerto Rico's relationship with other Latin American countries, González mentioned the importance of increasing air connections in the region, pointing out the recent opening of new direct flights between the island and Latin American destinations.
Finally, the governor stressed the importance of ensuring a stable electric supply, following the problems that arose after previous hurricanes, and expressed her commitment to advocating for government efficiency to facilitate life for citizens on the island.