Puerto Rico Independence Plan Circulates In Washington, Citing Massive Savings

A controversial proposal to make Puerto Rico independent is gaining attention on Capitol Hill, with a draft executive order outlining a transition plan now in circulation among lawmakers and administration officials. The document suggests the move could save the U.S. government more than $617 billion.

The seven-page draft has reportedly been reviewed by at least two members of Congress, along with senior administration figures such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard. The Senate Energy & Natural Resources Committee, which oversees territorial affairs, has also held discussions about the proposal.

The plan includes a 21-month timeline that would end birthright citizenship for Puerto Ricans born after December 31, 2026. It also calls for the establishment of an Executive Transition Commission to manage Puerto Rico’s shift from a U.S. territory to an independent nation.

Financial estimates in the document claim that Washington will spend $1.37 trillion maintaining Puerto Rico as a territory over the next 50 years, in addition to billions in disaster relief. To facilitate independence, the proposal suggests a $36 billion annual fund over 20 years to help Puerto Rico establish economic stability.

The White House has not taken an official stance on the proposal, and Trump has not signaled support for Puerto Rico’s independence. However, the draft appears to be part of an effort to pressure the administration into considering the idea.

Puerto Rico’s political future remains uncertain, with past referendums showing statehood as the preferred option among voters. While independence remains a minority position, its advocates argue that breaking ties with the U.S. would allow Puerto Rico to control its own economic destiny.

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