Status of Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is an unincorporated U.S. territory, meaning it is under U.S. sovereignty but does not have the same status as a state. Its residents are U.S. citizens but cannot vote in presidential elections and have limited representation in Congress. Puerto Rico has its own local government and laws but relies on the U.S. federal government for defense, currency, and federal programs. Ongoing debates consider whether Puerto Rico should become a state, remain a territory, or pursue independence, reflecting the diverse perspectives of its residents.