Puerto Rico's Status

Puerto Rico is an unincorporated U.S. territory, meaning it is controlled by the U.S. government but does not have the full rights of a state. Its residents are U.S. citizens, but they do not vote in U.S. presidential elections and have limited representation in Congress. Puerto Rico manages its own local affairs through an elected government but relies on federal agencies for many services. Discussions continue about whether it should become a state, an independent nation, or maintain its current status, reflecting ongoing debates about its political future.