A comedian who insulted Puerto Rico in front of a crowd at a Donald Trump rally in New York caused outrage on the island. Residents expressed their anger on Monday, highlighting the historical mistreatment the territory has suffered. Although Puerto Ricans cannot vote in the general U.S. elections, their influence over relatives in the country is significant. Currently, there are more Puerto Ricans in the United States than on the island.
Local residents often feel like second-class citizens for not being able to participate in presidential elections and receiving less federal funding compared to mainland states. Trump's visit to Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria, where he downplayed the devastation and tossed paper towels to the crowd, generated resentment on the island.
"I live where you vacation" and "Proud to be from the island of garbage" were some of the responses from Puerto Ricans on social media in reaction to the comedian's disdain in the viral video. Michael Meléndez Ortiz, a resident, emphasized the importance of respecting Puerto Rico.
José Acevedo, a healthcare worker, described Trump's actions as a humiliation. The president dismissed the official death toll from the hurricane, provoking even more outrage on the island. The racist and discriminatory comments from Tony Hinchcliffe generated disbelief and widespread anger.
Public figures like Ricky Martin and Bad Bunny expressed their support for Puerto Ricans. Milagros Serrano, 81, mentioned her family's disappointment in Pennsylvania over the insults towards Puerto Rico. The Puerto Rican influence in key states like Pennsylvania could be impacted by this incident.
The negative reaction was not limited to the general population. Local politicians like Jenniffer González and Pedro Pierluisi strongly condemned Hinchcliffe's comments. Outrage and disbelief prevail in Puerto Rico in response to the public disdain for the island.
