The political class of Puerto Rico expressed its rejection of the words of American comedian Tony Hinchcliffe, a supporter of Donald Trump, who said at an election rally that Puerto Rico is "a floating island of garbage." The outgoing governor of the New Progressive Party (PNP) lamented that comments like those reveal prejudices and racism present in today's society and emphasized the importance of electing leaders who oppose that intolerance.
Hinchcliffe made this statement as a speaker before Donald Trump's speech at a rally at Madison Square Garden in New York, attended by about 20,000 people. Despite having plans to perform in Puerto Rico, his shows were canceled by the venues where he was set to present: Gala in San Juan and Norbertos Piano Bar & Lounge in Humacao.
The Republican Party in Puerto Rico, through Trump-JD Vance's campaign director on the island, condemned Hinchcliffe's words as "reprehensible and racist," dissociating them from the party line. Both he and the PNP gubernatorial candidate and Trump supporter, Jenniffer González, categorically rejected the comedian's remarks, stating that they do not reflect the values of the GOP.
For their part, various local political figures such as Javier Jiménez, gubernatorial candidate for the Dignity Project Party, pointed out Puerto Rico's cultural and historical richness, defending the dignity of the Puerto Rican people and their contributions in various areas. Additionally, emphasis was placed on the rejection of any form of racism and the importance of respecting all cultures.
