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Politics March 09,2025 | Independence Journal Editorial Team

Congressional Draft Pushes Puerto Rico Independence Plan To Trump Administration

A draft executive order advocating for Puerto Rico’s independence is making the rounds in Washington — with lawmakers and officials reportedly discussing its financial and political implications. The document outlines a strategy to transition the island into an independent nation — citing potential cost savings of $617.8 billion for U.S. taxpayers.

The seven-page proposal has been obtained by at least two congressional offices — and sources say it has reached Secretary of State Marco Rubio — Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard and White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles. Meetings have reportedly been held by staffers from the Senate Energy & Natural Resources Committee — which oversees U.S. territories.

Key provisions in the document include a 21-month timeline to phase out birthright citizenship for those born in Puerto Rico after December 31 — 2026. The plan also calls for a newly formed Executive Transition Commission to oversee the separation process — ensuring that Puerto Rico receives adequate resources to develop economic independence.

The proposed financial plan includes a $36 billion annual transition fund over 20 years to facilitate Puerto Rico’s departure from U.S. territorial status. The draft argues that the U.S. would ultimately save more than $1.37 trillion over 50 years by ending federal subsidies and disaster relief commitments.

While the proposal is not officially endorsed by the Trump administration — its circulation suggests growing interest in rethinking Puerto Rico’s relationship with the U.S. Trump has not publicly supported the plan — and the White House has declined to comment.

Puerto Rico’s political future remains divisive — with a 2024 referendum showing that 58% of voters support statehood while only 11% favor full independence. Despite this — the draft order contends that independence aligns with Trump’s broader efforts to reduce federal spending and shift priorities to domestic programs.

Critics argue the move could create economic instability for Puerto Rico and disrupt decades of U.S. territorial governance.

 

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