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Puerto Rico to become 51st state?
Posted: 11.09.2012 at 10:29 PM
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Despite the non-binding vote in Puerto Rico, we're told it is very unlikely statehood will become reality.

First, it would have to pass the Republican-controlled House and Democrat-controlled Senate. The president would then have to sign off on it.

While some think it could really upset the political system, others don't see it that way, Puerto Rican Wandy Malpica said, "They are pretty much a state - yyu can come and go, so I really don't think that would be much difference...but in my opinion, politics wise, I don't know how that works."

John Langton, professor of Political Science at Westminster College said, "Puerto Rico has gone back and forth as to what kind of status it would like to have. Its status is kind of associated statehood right now - the citizens of Puerto Rico are citizens of the United States, but yet they are a country that participates as a country in the Olympics."

If Puerto Rico were admitted as a state, it would get two senators and, as estimated by some, about six Representatives.

So what is the likelihood of Puerto Rico becoming a state?

Langton said, "I just don't see the House of Representatives, in particular controlled by Republicans, and in the Senate it could easily be filibustered by Republicans has any appetite to increase Democratic strength in the Congress."

Puerto Rico is currently a US Territory and uses the dollar. Citizens do not need a passport to travel to the country.

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