NPRCC Founder & Board President, Dr. Justin Velez-Hagan joined Resident Commissioner and Puerto Rico Gubernatorial Candidate, Rep. Jenniffer Gonzalez-Colon along with a powerhouse group for a discussion panel titled “Strengthening US: Puerto Rico Policy: A Win for Security & Prosperity” hosted by our friends at the Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute (CHLI.)

After decades of challenges, America’s largest territory, Puerto Rico, is finally on an upswing: restored economic growth, improved transparency, and post-disaster infrastructure rebuilding all point to a promising future. This benefits not just the island, but also the U.S. mainland by increasing interstate commerce that is already worth over $30 billion per year. Additionally, China's growing influence in the Latin America and Caribbean region underscores Puerto Rico's strategic importance for U.S. national security.

This briefing explored how reinforcing U.S.-Puerto Rico ties can boost economic prosperity and strengthen national security. Specifically, how resolving the island's political status is integral to meeting and exceeding our nation’s strategic objectives.