Welcome to Mano a Mano, a podcast amplifying the voices of leaders, thinkers, activists, and allies from across the political spectrum who support Puerto Rico’s fight for full democracy and self-determination. Join co-hosts George Laws-GarcÃa and Martin Rivera as they dive into current events through the lens of U.S.-Puerto Rico relations and reveal how the Caribbean island’s political status can serve as a powerful vantage point for understanding some of the most fundamental questions facing America today. Each month, Martin and George interview key voices to bridge divides, offer in-depth analysis, and foster understanding while collectively working to build a more perfect Union - both for the U.S. Citizens of Puerto Rico and everyone who still believes in the fundamental American values of democracy, equal rights, and government by consent of the governed.
Why does Congress's budget reconciliation bill matter for Puerto Rico's health, economy and push for statehood? In this episode of the Mano a Mano Podcast, hosts George Laws Garcia and Martín Rivera of the Puerto Rico Statehood Council unpack how the 2025 reconciliation package could reshape Medicaid and nutritional assistance and other federal funding amid the expected nationwide federal funding cuts. They also discuss proposed tax incentives to increase local manufacturing, recent remarks from Puerto Rico's Governor and Resident Commissioner on territorial status, Congressman Pablo José Hernández's reluctance to recognize island voters' desire for statehood (and his party-refounding plans), the truth about the Jones Act's impact on shipping costs and food security, and why the Trump Administration might want to speak up about Puerto Rico's path to statehood.In this episode:What healthcare and nutrition funding changes are on the table?Which tax incentives could attract new manufacturers?Why are Puerto Rico's top elected leaders saying about political status?What is the debate on the Jones Act's impact on Puerto Rico?Timestamps:00:00 Introduction & Episode Overview00:45 Budget Reconciliation Basics for Puerto Rico04:10 Impact on Healthcare & Nutrition Programs07:50 Tax Incentives & Manufacturing Proposals12:15 Political Status Debate: Governor & Resident Commissioner16:30 Congressman Hernández & Party Refoundation23:53 Mailbag: Listener Questions Answered24:19 What is the Jones Act's impact on Puerto Rico?30:03 Trump Administration's Statehood Signals28:50 Personal Reflections & Next Steps
Why are Puerto Rico's tax laws so misunderstood? In this episode of the Mano a Mano podcast, host George is joined by Simón Carlo Valentín - tax attorney and CPA - to break down the complexities of Puerto Rico's tax system.They explore the truth about federal taxes in Puerto Rico, the impact of recent U.S. and local tax reforms, and how these policies shape the island's economy and its push for statehood. Simon shares expert insights on tariffs, tax code misconceptions, and what fiscal policy changes may be needed for Puerto Rico to fully integrate with the United States.In this episode:Do Puerto Ricans pay federal taxes?How U.S. tariffs affect the islandLocal tax reform and economic developmentMyths vs. facts on Puerto Rico's tax systemTax implications of Puerto Rico statehoodTimestamps:06:49 Federal Payroll Taxes and Inequities10:23 Puerto Rico's Contributions to Federal Taxes16:17 Impact of Tariffs on Puerto Rico20:55 Federal Tax Policy and Manufacturing Incentives25:05 Impact of Hurricane Maria on US Medical Supply Chain25:30 Proposed Manufacturing Redundancy Plan for National Security27:06 Economic Incentives and Tax Policies in Puerto Rico28:16 Disparities in Compensation and Intellectual Property Issues34:52 Local Tax Reform Efforts in Puerto Rico40:17 Act 60 and Its Implications for Statehood44:15 Vision for Puerto Rico's Statehood and Federal Tax Integration47:02 Community Engagement and Political Advocacy49:36 Conclusion and Call to Action
In this episode, George and Martín discuss the celebration of Florida's Puerto Rico Day at the Capitol, emphasizing bipartisan support for Puerto Rican issues within the Florida House of Representatives. They also talk about their advocacy efforts in Washington D.C. to advance Puerto Rico's statehood status at the recent Puerto Rico Equality and Statehood Summit.The conversation highlights the contrasting views within Puerto Rican political figures on the island's status issue, notably focusing on the actions of resident commissioner Pablo José Hernandez. In addition, the episode touches on rumors about the Trump administration considering an executive order to impose independence on Puerto Rico and debunks misinformation around it. The discussion also honors the memories of Raul Grijalva, former chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee, and Lincoln Diaz-Balart, former U.S. Representative, recognizing their contributions to Puerto Rican statehood and equality. Join us to understand the political dynamics and ongoing efforts to resolve Puerto Rico's status.00:00 Introduction and Opening Remarks02:42 Celebrating Puerto Rican Advocacy07:06 Bipartisan Support in Florida09:40 Controversies and Challenges14:35 Rumors and Misinformation22:21 Honoring Champions of Equality30:24 Conclusion and Call to Action Watch episodes of Mano a Mano on YouTube @PuertoRico51st.Interested in learning more about the statehood movement? Visit our Website: https://www.pr51st.comSign-up for Email Updates: http://www.pr51st.com/take-action/sign-up/Follow us on: Facebook - @PR51stTwitter - @PuertoRico51stInstagram - @PR51st Produced by Caandor Labs.
In this episode of the Mano a Mano podcast, George Laws Garcia and Martin Rivera discuss a recent visit to Puerto Rico for the Right to Democracy Summit on U.S. Colonialism, where a cross-territorial coalition worked towards ending the unjust treatment of U.S. citizens and U.S. nationals in all of America's territories. Their discussion also highlights the upcoming Puerto Rico Equality and Statehood Summit in Washington D.C. hosted by the Government of Puerto Rico, and how citizen advocates are shaping the future of the movement to end the injustices of territorial colonialism and advance full equality and democracy through statehood. The episode wraps up with answers to listeners' questions about issues ranging from sovereignty to gentrification in Puerto Rico.Tune in for an in-depth analysis of cultural, political, and social factors affecting the Puerto Rico's statehood movement.00:45 Recent Visit to Puerto Rico and Cross Territorial Coalition02:11 Cultural Differences and Common Goals05:43 Territorial Status and Self-Determination16:15 Upcoming Puerto Rico Equality and Statehood Summit21:32 Mailbag: Answering Audience Questions29:26 Conclusion and Call to Action Watch episodes of Mano a Mano on YouTube @PuertoRico51st.Interested in learning more about the statehood movement? Visit our Website: https://www.pr51st.comSign-up for Email Updates: http://www.pr51st.com/take-action/sign-up/Follow us on: Facebook - @PR51stTwitter - @PuertoRico51stInstagram - @PR51st Produced by Caandor Labs.
In this episode of the Mano a Mano podcast, George and Martín dive into the latest updates on the certified results of Puerto Rico's plebiscite and share insights on the inaugurations of Governor González Colón and President Trump. They also examine Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro's controversial remarks on Puerto Rican independence and explore how Bad Bunny's latest album sparks a deeper conversation about preserving Puerto Rican culture amidst the journey toward statehood. Tune in to unpack these developments, their implications for Puerto Rico's future, and the ongoing debate surrounding statehood and cultural identity. 00:00 Welcome to Mano a Mano Podcast 00:46 Puerto Rico's 2024 Plebiscite Results 04:16 Controversial Statements and Political Reactions 07:46 Inauguration Updates: Governor González Colón and President Trump 12:23 Bad Bunny's Cultural Commentary 16:56 The Future of Puerto Rico's Political Status Watch episodes of Mano a Mano on YouTube @PuertoRico51st. Interested in learning more about the statehood movement? Visit our Website: https://www.pr51st.com Sign-up for Email Updates: http://www.pr51st.com/take-action/sign-up/ Follow us on: Facebook - @PR51st Twitter - @PuertoRico51st Instagram - @PR51st Produced by Caandor Labs.
In this episode of the Mano a Mano podcast, we sit down with Gabriella Boffelli, the newly appointed Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Federal Affairs Administration. Gabriella shares insights into her transition from serving as Chief of Staff for Governor Jennifer González-Colón to leading PRFAA. The conversation explores her deep expertise in Puerto Rico's most pressing issues, including disaster recovery funding, energy grid challenges, and the Puerto Rico Status Act. She also unpacks the recent election results, the significance of Jennifer González's victory, and the broader implications for Puerto Rico's statehood movement and policy agenda under a Republican-led federal government. Tune in for an engaging discussion on Puerto Rico's path to statehood, national security, and economic competitiveness. Watch episodes of Mano a Mano on YouTube @PuertoRico51st. Interested in learning more about the statehood movement? Visit our Website: https://www.pr51st.com Sign-up for Email Updates: http://www.pr51st.com/take-action/sign-up/ Follow us on: Facebook - @PR51st Twitter - @PuertoRico51st Instagram - @PR51st Produced by Caandor Labs.
In this episode of the Mana a Mano podcast, George Laws García and Martín Rivera of the Puerto Rico Statehood Council break down the outcomes of the 2024 U.S. General Election and their implications for both Puerto Rico and the United States. They examine former President Donald Trump's victory over Vice President Kamala Harris, discussing its broader significance, unexpected voter turnout trends across key demographics, and the political realignment these shifts suggest.The conversation then turns to Puerto Rico's election results, spotlighting Jennifer González Colón's historic election as governor, the overwhelming victory for statehood in the island's plebiscite, and the symbolic presidential vote held in Puerto Rico. The hosts also analyze the challenges and opportunities statehood advocates may face in the next Congress, considering the altered political landscape and the clear electoral mandate for statehood.00:31 Election Results Breakdown04:51 Impact on Puerto Rican Voters07:38 Congressional Shifts and Leadership Changes13:42 Puerto Rico's Local Election Outcomes20:51 Puerto Rico's Plebiscite Results23:04 Symbolic Presidential Vote in Puerto Rico26:20 Looking Ahead: Future Political Landscape Watch episodes of Mano a Mano on YouTube @PuertoRico51st.Interested in learning more about the statehood movement? Visit our Website: https://www.pr51st.comSign-up for Email Updates: http://www.pr51st.com/take-action/sign-up/Follow us on: Facebook - @PR51stTwitter - @PuertoRico51stInstagram - @PR51st Produced by Caandor Labs.
In this episode of the Mano a Mano Podcast, hosts George Laws Garcia and Martin Rivera from the Puerto Rico Statehood Council break down the critical issues at play in the 2024 elections and their profound implications for Puerto Rico's political future. We're talking federal and local races, the latest polling on statehood, independence, and free association, and what each choice could mean for Puerto Rico's path forward.Special guest Dr. Robert McClure, President and CEO of the James Madison Institute, joins us to dive into the growing influence of Puerto Rican voters stateside, particularly in key battlegrounds like Florida and Pennsylvania.Tune in as we explore:How the growth of Puerto Rican voters stateside is increasing attention to the statehood in the U.S. and challenging elected officials to address it head-onThe increasing spotlight on Puerto Rican voters in Pennsylvania during the 2024 Presidential election, and what it could mean for candidatesWhy the discussion of statehood for Puerto Rico will only become more urgent in the years and elections to comeFrom political status to the power of Puerto Rican voters, this episode offers a deep look into the issues that matter most. Don't miss this engaging discussion on Puerto Rico's future in the 2024 elections. Watch now and join the conversation!01:28 Puerto Rico's Symbolic Presidential Vote02:20 Gubernatorial Race Insights04:29 Puerto Rico's Status Question11:52 Stateside Politics Influencing Puerto Rico15:35 Puerto Rican Voters in Florida17:43 Interview with Dr. Robert McClure19:33 James Madison Institute's Role and Impact39:21 Puerto Rico's Territorial Status and Plebiscites42:04 Political Engagement and Statehood Advocacy46:35 The Growing Importance of the Statehood Issue49:36 Potential Impact of Pro-Independence Leadership56:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Watch episodes of Mano a Mano on YouTube @PuertoRico51st.Interested in learning more about the statehood movement? Visit our Website: https://www.pr51st.comSign-up for Email Updates: http://www.pr51st.com/take-action/sign-up/Follow us on: Facebook - @PR51stTwitter - @PuertoRico51stInstagram - @PR51st Produced by Caandor Labs.
In this episode of the Mano a Mano podcast, George Laws Garcia and Martin Rivera discuss crucial updates for the 2024 presidential election and Puerto Rico's political status plebiscite. They are joined by Luis Dávila Pernas, the chairman of the Democratic Party of Puerto Rico and Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Federal Affairs Administration (PRFAA). The conversation covers the Democratic Party's endorsement of the Puerto Rico Status Act, the implications of recent Supreme Court decisions, and PRFAA's role in bridging Puerto Rico with the federal government. They also delve into the significance of upcoming votes and how individuals can advocate for statehood and other political statuses for Puerto Rico.00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:41 Federal Government Funding and Congressional Updates01:34 Democratic National Convention Highlights03:55 Supreme Court Decision on Puerto Rico Plebiscite07:19 Interview with Luis Davila Pernas09:01 Role and Importance of PRFAA12:21 Political Dynamics and Democratic Party Involvement18:33 Puerto Rico Status Act and Future Prospects36:13 Significance of the Upcoming Plebiscite41:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Watch episodes of Mano a Mano on YouTube @PuertoRico51st.Interested in learning more about the statehood movement? Visit our Website: https://www.pr51st.comSign-up for Email Updates: http://www.pr51st.com/take-action/sign-up/Follow us on: Facebook - @PR51stTwitter - @PuertoRico51stInstagram - @PR51st Produced by Caandor Labs.
In this episode of the Mano a Mano podcast, George Las Garcia and Martin Rivera discuss the 2024 presidential election and its affect on efforts to decolonize Puerto Rico. They delve into the upcoming locally sponsored plebiscite aimed at addressing Puerto Rico's territorial status and its implications under the Puerto Rico Status Act.Special guest Jose Carrion III, the former chairman of Puerto Rico's Financial Oversight and Management Board, joins the show to discuss the economic and fiscal reforms in Puerto Rico under the PROMESA legislation and its impact on the island's competitiveness and quest for statehood. The discussion also covers political developments from the recent Republican National Convention, the transition in leadership within Puerto Rico's pro-statehood party, and the broader national security and economic arguments for Puerto Rico's statehood from a Republican perspective.02:27 Biden Drops Out of 2024 Race03:50 Republican National Convention Highlights07:31 DNC Platform and Puerto Rico09:15 Local Politics in Puerto Rico13:17 Puerto Rico's Fiscal Oversight and Economic Reforms33:53 Statehood vs. Independence: A Respectful Debate34:43 Facing Public Backlash and Security Concerns35:20 Psychological and Demographic Challenges37:28 Municipalities and Fiscal Realities39:11 Identity and Political Passion40:07 Consolidation and Political Manipulation42:00 Fiscal Oversight and Political Status44:29 Tax Rates and Economic Policies46:24 Preparing for Statehood: Policies and Reforms49:35 Political Landscape and Upcoming Elections52:14 Republican Influence and Statehood Movement58:45 National Security and Economic Potential01:05:58 Final Thoughts and Recommendations Watch episodes of Mano a Mano on YouTube @PuertoRico51st.Interested in learning more about the statehood movement? Visit our Website: https://www.pr51st.comSign-up for Email Updates: http://www.pr51st.com/take-action/sign-up/Follow us on: Facebook - @PR51stTwitter - @PuertoRico51stInstagram - @PR51st Produced by Caandor Labs.
In this month's episode of Mano a Mano, co-hosts George and Martin discuss the latest developments in Congress regarding Puerto Rico's political status, including a significant update on the Puerto Rico Status Act. They also delve into how these legislative efforts tie into the upcoming 2024 general election and the ongoing quest to decolonize Puerto Rico. Later in the show, Professor Charles Venator-Santiago from the University of Connecticut joins the conversation to explore the historical context, demographics, and political factors influencing the demand for change in Puerto Rico. Professor Venator also shares his work on the Puerto Rico Status Archive project, a digital database of congressional legislation on Puerto Rico's political status. View the archive here.Tune in to gain updates on island politics, insights into the current statehood efforts, and the path toward self-determination for Puerto Rico.WATCH THE EPISODE ON YOUTUBE. Watch episodes of Mano a Mano on YouTube @PuertoRico51st.Interested in learning more about the statehood movement? Visit our Website: https://www.pr51st.comSign-up for Email Updates: http://www.pr51st.com/take-action/sign-up/Follow us on: Facebook - @PR51stTwitter - @PuertoRico51stInstagram - @PR51st Produced by Caandor Labs.
On this episode of Mano a Mano, U.S., co-hosts George and Martin delve into the democratic deficit faced by U.S. territories. They discuss the discriminatory impact of the insular cases and the efforts of a cross-territorial coalition to advocate for democratic equality. The conversation also covers the Puerto Rico Status Act and the importance of federal elected officials addressing the disparities in the territories. Guest Adi Martínez-Román from Right to Democracy joins to provide insights. News and updates include the FAA reauthorization bill's significance for aviation safety and infrastructure. Tune in for a deep dive into Puerto Rico's journey toward self-determination and full democracy today!About Adi:Adi Martínez-Román has nearly two decades of experience working in community legal aid and empowerment. She is the President of the Board of Director of the Resiliency Law Center (RLC) and the Founder Director of the non-profit organization, FURIA, Inc., which focuses on empowering community leaders through participatory advocacy. Adi began working as and advocate for climate resiliency in 2017 as the Executive Director of the Access to Justice Fund Foundation, where she led efforts to increase access to civil legal services for the impoverished, then as Senior Policy Analyst in Oxfam American, and as Director of the RLC. Before her work in the resiliency sector, Adi served as the Assistant Dean of Students at the University of Puerto Rico Law School for seven years, where she also taught courses on the Legal Profession, Law and Poverty, and Law and Social Change. She has been part of several boards, including the Board of Directors of Puerto Rico Legal Services Corporation, where she held the position of President for a year and a half.She holds a bachelor's degree from Princeton's Woodrow Wilson School of Public Policy and International Affairs, a law degree from the University of Puerto Rico, and both a Masters of Law and Doctorate of Jurisprudence from the Instituto Bartolomé de las Casas at Universidad Carlos III of Madrid (Spain). Watch episodes of Mano a Mano on YouTube @PuertoRico51st.Interested in learning more about the statehood movement? Visit our Website: https://www.pr51st.comSign-up for Email Updates: http://www.pr51st.com/take-action/sign-up/Follow us on: Facebook - @PR51stTwitter - @PuertoRico51stInstagram - @PR51st Produced by Caandor Labs.
"Let's call it el comeback!"
On this month's episode of Mano a Mano, co-hosts George Law-García and Martin Rivera are joined by Prof. Andrés L. Cordova, Esq., Chairman of the Puerto Rico Advisory Committee to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights (PRAC to the USCCR), as they embark on a crucial exploration of Puerto Rico's civil rights landscape.On the pod, they dissect the groundbreaking memorandum by the PRAC, shedding light on the enduring impacts of the infamous Insular Cases; cover the history of the USCCR and its role in addressing democratic deficits; and explore a path toward equality and justice.Additional Updates/ Topics Covered:- Updates on Congress and its impact on resolving Puerto Rico's territory status- Senate + House returning from recess, facing priorities like avoiding a government shutdown & passing appropriations for 2024- The challenging situation during the 2024 election year as it relates to Puerto Rico's fight for equal justice & self-determination - The impact on legislative issues beyond basic fundingRESOURCES:- Click here to read the memorandum from the Puerto Rico Advisory Committee to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights - Click here to learn about the ongoing legacy of the Insular Cases TIMESTAMPS[00:02:22] Funding the federal government - Deadline approaches...[00:07:11] History of the US Commission on Civi Rigths and The Puerto Rico Advisory Committee established.[00:09:36] Unequal treatment in Puerto Rico.[00:14:24] The impact of Insular Cases.[00:16:30] Territorial status of Puerto Rico.[00:21:25] Territories and Insular Cases.[00:25:44] Insular cases and constitutional rights.[00:29:39] Statehood movement and language.[00:34:17] Constitutional and political issues.[00:36:07] Incorporation and statehood debate.[00:40:48] Puerto Rico status debate.[00:43:31] The importance of advisory boards.[00:49:32] Educating about territorial status.[00:50:15] Democratic deficit. Watch episodes of Mano a Mano on YouTube @PuertoRico51st.Interested in learning more about the statehood movement? Visit our Website: https://www.pr51st.comSign-up for Email Updates: http://www.pr51st.com/take-action/sign-up/Follow us on: Facebook - @PR51stTwitter - @PuertoRico51stInstagram - @PR51st Produced by Caandor Labs.
In our second episode of Mano a Mano, co-hosts George Laws García and Martin Rivera provide a detailed examination of Puerto Rico's statehood movement. Uncover the strides made in 2022 and 2023, explore current priorities in the 118th Congress, and learn how we can work together to anticipate challenges in 2024. This episode is a vital exploration of Puerto Rico's ongoing quest for full democracy and self-determination. Watch episodes of Mano a Mano on YouTube @PuertoRico51st.Interested in learning more about the statehood movement? Visit our Website: https://www.pr51st.comSign-up for Email Updates: http://www.pr51st.com/take-action/sign-up/Follow us on: Facebook - @PR51stTwitter - @PuertoRico51stInstagram - @PR51st Produced by Caandor Labs.
In our inaugural episode of "Mano a Mano: U.S. & Puerto Rico," Governor Pedro Pierluisi joins hosts George Laws-García and Martin Rivera for an exclusive interview. Discover the Governor's personal story and gain insights into the progress and hurdles in Puerto Rico's fight for full equality and self-determination.Also on the show, George and Martin delve into the history and geopolitics that have shaped America's relationship with Puerto Rico for the past 125 years. They discuss the significance of understanding Puerto Rico's political status in the context of US geopolitics and highlight the recent introduction of the Senate Companion of the Puerto Rico Status Act.. Watch episodes of Mano a Mano on YouTube @PuertoRico51st.Interested in learning more about the statehood movement? Visit our Website: https://www.pr51st.comSign-up for Email Updates: http://www.pr51st.com/take-action/sign-up/Follow us on: Facebook - @PR51stTwitter - @PuertoRico51stInstagram - @PR51st Produced by Caandor Labs.
Welcome to Mano a Mano - a podcast amplifying the voices of leaders, thinkers, activists, and allies from across the political spectrum who support Puerto Rico's fight for full democracy and self-determination. Join co-hosts George Laws-García and Martin Rivera as they dive into current events through the lens of U.S.-Puerto Rico relations and reveal how the Caribbean island's political status can serve as a powerful vantage point for understanding some of the most fundamental questions facing America today.Each month, Martin and George interview key voices to bridge divides, offer in-depth analysis and foster understanding while collectively working to build a more perfect Union - both for the U.S. Citizens of Puerto Rico and everyone who still believes in the fundamental American values of democracy, equal rights, and government by consent of the governed. Watch episodes of Mano a Mano on YouTube @PuertoRico51st.Interested in learning more about the statehood movement? Visit our Website: https://www.pr51st.comSign-up for Email Updates: http://www.pr51st.com/take-action/sign-up/Follow us on: Facebook - @PR51stTwitter - @PuertoRico51stInstagram - @PR51st Produced by Caandor Labs.
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