Juan González: In Surprise Move, Gorsuch Challenges U.S. Colonialism in SCOTUS Ruling on Puerto Rico

Puerto Rican elected officials from both the island and the United States are on Capitol Hill today to support the Puerto Rico Self-Determination Act, which would establish a process for determining the status of the U.S. territory. This comes after the Supreme Court recently supported the Biden administration's claim that Puerto Ricans are not entitled to claim full Supplemental Security Income benefits unless they move to the mainland. Democracy Now! host Juan González analyzes the developments and highlights conservative Justice Neil Gorsuch's surprising concurring opinion in the latest Supreme Court decision, which he calls "one of the clearest and most eloquent statements exposing U.S. colonialism that's ever been issued by a Supreme Court justice, at least in my lifetime."
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[@Purpleturtlehurtler]

Either make Puerto Rico a state or let it make it's own path as a sovereign state. There is no reason to keep it in limbo at it's citizen's detriment.

[@ericquiabazza2608]

The reason is economical control, military adventage and exploitation

[@Purpleturtlehurtler]

@@ericquiabazza2608 yes. Colonial reasons.

[@clboxingarchives2213]

We need to bring boriken Back

[@Revel136]

It's too profitable for the vampires of Wall Street.

[@madArt1981]

There’s little profit in doing that. Once we’re given “Independence” we will not be able to make profitable decisions for PR with whom we see fit to do business with.

[@dontaylor7315]

"Taxation without representation is tyranny." - Popular slogan in colonial America during and before 1776

[@jacklynnmjackson2383]

CUT THE CHECK. Is not AOC and other Sp, YOUR representation.

[@dontaylor7315]

@@jacklynnmjackson2383 AOC was elected by the Queens borough of NYC. Puerto Rico has NO seats in Congress. They pay taxes but have NO Representatives or Senators.

[@jacklynnmjackson2383]

@@dontaylor7315 Is not AOC a representative?

[@jacklynnmjackson2383]

You claim AOC was "elected".

[@dontaylor7315]

@@jacklynnmjackson2383 Yep. She represents Queens.

[@Marxist2]

I am glad AOC is speaking out against this criminal, plainly awful ruling. The U.S. Supreme Court treatment of Puerto Rico is beyond colonialism.

[@zorroinhell5549]

Then why is AOC still not doing anything against this currant administration stopping them from continuing in power? Her and the "Squad" are supporting the the corporate congress women against Nina Turner. She calls Nancy Pelosi "Mama Bear". She just went to save face with the Unionizing of Amazon with Bernie Sanders. Chris Smalls even confronted her about her lack of support AOC stating "Security concerns" yet two weeks later she is at a Hunger Games Gala where she has a gown on that has, "Tax the Rich" and she was not wearing a mask while the young man holding the tail of her gown had to have a mask on? But she sure is a pretty Lay-Teen- Ah! Maybe if she would understand that she is a Mestiza, that might begin to get her more in touch with what the indigenous people, who's identity is lost under the umbrella of the word "latino" a word created by white people so that they can feel more comfortable around us Mestizo's!

[@darnellgrape-drinker4916]

Why should we give welfare island anymore handouts?

[@jacklynnmjackson2383]

Where does Sotomayor's voice come in?

[@KevinHuff23]

Shut up! Why should Puerto Ricans get the same benefits as those that pay federal income tax?

[@Tupelo927]

@@KevinHuff23 You're misinformed, sir. Puerto Rico pays 1.9% in payroll taxes for SSI.

[@Labor_Jones]

*It's pretty simple... as the RICH GOT RICHER our Democracy became Weaker!*

[@TheGuinever]

It goes back to the Powell Memorandum. Then several other disastrous decisions. Then Citizens United finished the job.

[@larryross1819]

President Robinette's financial filings reveal that he declared almost $7 million more income on his tax returns than he did on his government transparency reports. Whoops! Some of that difference can be accounted for with salaries earned by doctor Jill Biden and other sums not required on his reports - but still leaves $5.2 million earned by Robinette's company and not listed on his transparency reports. The ‘missing millions’ - combined with emails on Hunter’s abandoned laptop suggesting Robinette would have a 10% share in Hunter’s blockbuster deal with the Chinese - raise a troubling question: did the Big Guy receive money from the foreign venture? It’s very clear that Robinette was rolling in dough-so much so that, as some of the documents show, he was able to pay Hunter’s legal bills in 2018, which totaled $737,130.61. Of that gigantic sum, $28,000 was attributed to “restructuring” Hunter’s joint venture with the Bank of China, owned by the Chinese Communist Party. If that $5.2 million was from pay-to-play schemes, Robinette was being very greedy, because he and doctor Jill were raking in the money-although he didn’t want the American people to know just how much it was. While in office president Robinette had a relatively modest income, but he enjoyed a flood of millions of dollars soon after he left office, much of which came from his memoir book deal and eye-watering speaking fees. Between 2017 and 2019 he and doctor Jill Biden reported $16.5 million in gross income on their federal tax returns, released by the Biden campaign. The vast majority came from their two companies, CelticCapri Corp and Giacoppa Corp, which they use for speaking and writing engagements. But in Office of Government Ethics (OGE) fillings for the same period, Joe only reported $9.6 million in income for himself and his doctor wife. What’s also interesting is that another legal bill that Joe paid-an October 15, 2018, bill for $68,933.41 for a restructuring of another Chinese matter-was addressed to Eric D. Schwerin. If that name rings a bell, it’s because Scherwin was a very frequent White House visitor during Robinette’s Veep run. Although reports originally said he’d been there 19 times during that era, new logs reveal another eight visits, all during 2016, when he met with Biden’s Chief of Staff, Steve Ricchetti (now Robinette's White House counselor). In 2019, Robinette stated unequivocally that he knew nothing about his genius son’s business dealings: “I have never spoken to my son about his overseas business dealings.” That was a lie. He added, “Here’s what I know. Trump should be investigated.” President Robinette should now call for an investigation of Putin! LGB

[@darnellgrape-drinker4916]

We don't live in a Democracy.

[@sharlagardner]

Well said!

[@kevinmcconnell9426]

That’s pure fascism!

[@reginaldgraham1057]

Not entitled, but you can fight and give your life for the United States . This is crazy.

[@KevinHuff23]

No, they are NOT entitled, they pay NO federal income taxes!

[@1m2rich]

You can join the military to become a citizen. A lot of Mexicans do it. We no longer have a draft.

[@greymann]

Unlikely you will give your life 'fighting' for the U.S. You are much more likely to die on your home ground without any of the benefits afforded the military. Besides, the U.S. military is totally volunteer, so what's your beef?

[@sunshinelizard1]

@@1m2rich Apparently if Puerto Ricans gain citizenship then go home to PR, they lose their benefits. That is so wrong on so many levels.

[@carloscolon198]

@@sunshinelizard1 // Puertorricans have US Citizenship by birth. We are US Citizens. That’s why it’s a Legal issue because the US Voted in the UN to eliminate Colonies in the world but the US keep Colonies. The Constitution states that all Citizens are equal. Congress created the Insular Cases to justify discrimination against US Citizens that live in the Territories.

[@jacquejones96793]

Fantastic! This is the kind of journalism that set Democracy Now apart from others.

[@ripadipaflipa4672]

One of the news shows worth watching. I as with all US citizens should watch daily. The best!

[@stephenbochicchio9351]

@@ripadipaflipa4672 yes yes

[@jessehicok5314]

Funny how the don’t question the Biden administration more

[@draftdaydice3656]

@@ripadipaflipa4672 Not only watch, but also make a monetary contribution.

[@seaotter52]

@@jessehicok5314 Seems you don't watch this show

[@juliadixon6252]

Puerto Rico needs to be either it's own state or it's own country. Same with Guam and all the rest of "our" territories.

[@leehaelters6182]

@@katiedotson704, I am the same age, and you have described my own trajectory!

[@Dbb27]

@@katiedotson704 ditto. Well put.

[@JoshDoingLinux]

@@beserkermeiji unfortunately, no. They can say all they want they want to be a state. Congress gets the final say on statehood. And it's unlikely Congress will allow that, because it would upset the numbers of people that would vote in a dramatic way. And would also likely make it near impossible for republicans to ever keep a majority in the house or Senate, or have a sitting president. It would also make it mandatory for the government to give aid during a hurricane, or other natural disasters. It would also make all debts by Puerto Rico the responsibility of the us government.

[@kbmalo_]

We can do better as an independent country then as a state, Just 1 example out of millions Ex: The US makes business with Brazil and everything gets picked up in Puerto Rico (Halfway) so if Puerto Rico were to charge the US for using its country as a leverage to make business with Brazil Puerto Rico can make MILLIONS!!

[@michaelportone2915]

@Dotson And what have you been doing to turn things around? As we had been a colony for many years before independence some things take time. Your generation did very little.

[@Labor_Jones]

Great Reporting... I almost never hear Mr. Gonzalez speak and it was an honor today to hear him! -- Thanks - m.

[@sk8ter975]

Thank you Juan, for your deep research and explanation of the implications of this case.

[@myekal147]

We lose so much time watching the Incredulous behavior of mindless, spineless humans - No justice, No peace.

[@faithfulgrl]

🕊I concur wholeheartedly. All humans make a choice to be stand-up or not. Even the in-between have open minds. I believe in the goodness in people. There are really more of us than evil. Evil is just louder. Thanks for your comment

[@tracybethune200]

Puerto Rico should follow Jamaica and Barbados by declaring itself as its own republic

[@zazatv6822]

@Raymond race dog

[@joebarbjb6668]

Indeed and stop paying into a SS system that they willnever benefit from.

[@tracybethune200]

A LOT OF PUERTO RICANS SERVED IN THE MILITARY FOR THE USA AND CAN BE DRAFTED AND THEY HAVE PAID INTO SOCIAL SECURITY

[@LuvHurtsEitherWay69]

@Raymond excuse me? U bigoted moron...

[@thewholeworldisbeautiful]

@Raymond 🖕🏽 remember its white Americans who stormed the capital on Jan 6 and how are domestic terrorists.

[@tatokay4285]

Independence for Puerto Rico and Democracy Now!

[@RocketmanRockyMatrix]

They people won't vote for their independence or statehood. They want access to the the Mainland.

[@clarkhull7546]

Free Snoop Dogg!

[@romestill100]

Free the independent leaders of Puerto Rico 🇵🇷

[@deekneumann3943]

Juan, stay on this. Excellent reporting.

[@fahlici1801]

Juan Gonzalez makes no sense by all means. A claim for sovereignty or claim for bankruptcy while in the process of justifying what. The Federal government is what A.O.C has in mind. It will lead to debt, and a backlog of empty promises. Transparency is better than than fallibility. But i"f you claim bankruptcy what's to buy into." You not managing well enough alone, the federal crutches will become permanent obstacles in route to sovereignty

[@libbyholt3863]

If they're willing, let's please just make PR a state in full standing.

[@CariFincaKi]

They talk very beautiful ethical words about our rights & situation, but we continue being an exploited colony for more than 100 years. Enough blah blah blah. We demand justice & freedom.

[@bblessedbarnett1]

I’m glad I watched this. This was a great insight into the decisions that were made. Great job Dem Now!

[@andrebrown8969]

This is what news should be.

[@silverpurkat]

@@andrebrown8969 it use to be way back before cable television

[@barbarahartlen4052]

Fix this, either let Preto Rico be its own Sovereign State. I really think this was a very wrong move.

[@catherinerodriguez4598]

AOC hit the nail on the head.👵🕵️‍♀️🧐

[@clarkhull7546]

Free AOC!!

[@larryross1819]

President Robinette's financial filings reveal that he declared almost $7 million more income on his tax returns than he did on his government transparency reports. Whoops! Some of that difference can be accounted for with salaries earned by doctor Jill Biden and other sums not required on his reports - but still leaves $5.2 million earned by Robinette's company and not listed on his transparency reports. The ‘missing millions’ - combined with emails on Hunter’s abandoned laptop suggesting Robinette would have a 10% share in Hunter’s blockbuster deal with the Chinese - raise a troubling question: did the Big Guy receive money from the foreign venture? It’s very clear that Robinette was rolling in dough-so much so that, as some of the documents show, he was able to pay Hunter’s legal bills in 2018, which totaled $737,130.61. Of that gigantic sum, $28,000 was attributed to “restructuring” Hunter’s joint venture with the Bank of China, owned by the Chinese Communist Party. If that $5.2 million was from pay-to-play schemes, Robinette was being very greedy, because he and doctor Jill were raking in the money-although he didn’t want the American people to know just how much it was. While in office president Robinette had a relatively modest income, but he enjoyed a flood of millions of dollars soon after he left office, much of which came from his memoir book deal and eye-watering speaking fees. Between 2017 and 2019 he and doctor Jill Biden reported $16.5 million in gross income on their federal tax returns, released by the Biden campaign. The vast majority came from their two companies, CelticCapri Corp and Giacoppa Corp, which they use for speaking and writing engagements. But in Office of Government Ethics (OGE) fillings for the same period, Joe only reported $9.6 million in income for himself and his doctor wife. What’s also interesting is that another legal bill that Joe paid-an October 15, 2018, bill for $68,933.41 for a restructuring of another Chinese matter-was addressed to Eric D. Schwerin. If that name rings a bell, it’s because Scherwin was a very frequent White House visitor during Robinette’s Veep run. Although reports originally said he’d been there 19 times during that era, new logs reveal another eight visits, all during 2016, when he met with Biden’s Chief of Staff, Steve Ricchetti (now Robinette's White House counselor). In 2019, Robinette stated unequivocally that he knew nothing about his genius son’s business dealings: “I have never spoken to my son about his overseas business dealings.” That was a lie. He added, “Here’s what I know. Trump should be investigated.” President Robinette should now call for an investigation of Putin! LGB

[@youarefreetodoaswetellyou1371]

AOC can't free herself. She got in on money. She speaks for her masters

[@phillybornandbred2867]

Goofy's head!

[@hgr4255]

@@phillybornandbred2867 Coming from an idiots mouth - gotcha.

[@zehrajafri9252]

Great job. Juan Gonzalez. Keep the truth alive for humanity and the planet and to wake up humanity. ❤ ❤ ❤

[@theuncomfortabletruth8348]

Freedom and independence for Puerto Rico !!!

[@phaedrussocrates7636]

Thank you Democracy Now, this is really important!

[@tradeprosper5002]

Bizarre ruling since PR pays 1.9% in payroll taxes for SSI, but does not qualify for it.

[@jarvisaddison8560]

Nah not bizarre just full control of non white folks that all.

[@ShailendraSINGH-jk2ev]

Fukc USA Australia New Zealand UK Canada Europe

[@Boricua_USAF]

Payroll tax is not Federal Income tax, that is where the difference lies

[@markluni4234]

Current SSA tax is 15.3%

[@Boricua_USAF]

@@markluni4234 and yet SSA is not a Federal Income Tax

[@DeCleyre161]

Juan you are among the most invaluable truth tellers of our lifetimes. Blessings to you, your family and everyone at Democracy Now! 💛

[@Garber1956]

SCOTUS: term limits, ethics laws needed, and break up the good ole boys club

[@Clusterboy]

Our society is collapsing.

[@chrishelmuth4065]

Fascinating subject in a time grappling with honesty. Exquisite journalism!

[@diegoconde2728]

Very proud of you Juan, God blessings

[@DTavona]

The fact that Gorsuch chose to vote with the majority despite his misgivings speaks volumes, and his excuse that no one asked him to vote his conscience is just that -- an excuse. Kudos for his paper on colonialism, but shame for not backing up the question with actually voting correctly when it countes.

[@polferiferus1938]

Exactly! Makes me wonder what’s really afoot. (It’s alleged) the guy showcased his decisions to put himself on short lists to be nominated by a conservative president, so “the long game” probably continues. The reporter said his decision needed to be looked at more closely, and I agree. What unintended consequences could result from overturning this very old decision (can’t recall it’s name)? And if it is overturned, what justification may be used, what new precedent set, to deny PR’s autonomy anyway? It needs to be studied and played out very thoroughly.

[@desposify]

Judges don't make law, he has to apply it as he interprets it, whether he agrees with the law or not. I don't think it's an excuse, the alternative is judges making decisions based on their own feelings.

[@robertahearn4489]

Yes it's a Joke to them how they treat Puerto Ricans who have fought In wars and are heroes for America during the past wars

[@IExpectedBSJustNotThisMuchBS]

Well, Dred Scott Scott case was overturned by the 13th and 14th amendment. Let’s hope the Court takes action and we don’t have to resort to an amendment. I think his opinion helps open the door to that.

[@aileenpi73]

Right

[@raulr23martinezmartinez81]

Muy bien sr Juan con toda la carne al asador ya es hora . Que los que realmente saven hablen la verdad y la conciencia esta de su lado . Felicidades que sea haga. Democracia ahora

[@theoutlook55]

Never thought I'd say this but, go Gorsuch.

[@jayneberkley9742]

Just goes to show…..people aren’t all bad…..I was surprised to😁

[@PhotoDesigner1]

Wish he had voted along with Justice Sotomayor.

[@LlyleHunter]

He’s actually surprised me twice now. He actually stood up to the conservative lasers representing the State of Texas ion the gerrymandering case brought before the court last year and questioned whether their intentions went against the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Chief Just Robert got scared and remanded the case back to the states. Roberts is much more of a threat than Gorsuch is.

[@merannicuill6435]

this., why DIDN'T he vote along with her? Oh wait, he didn't because NO ONE ASKED HIM TO OVERTHROW IT?

[@PhotoDesigner1]

@@merannicuill6435 .... Ohhh, he was Waiting to be asked.

[@ecamormex]

The colonialists throw paper towels at the people they think are lesser humans. Sometimes they're democrats and sometimes they're republicans, but their contempt toward Puerto Rico is always the same.

[@makeracistsafraidagain]

No second class citizens.

[@quintrankid8045]

Have you drafted a Constitutional Amendment to make that a reality?

[@briangarrow448]

It’s past time for our country to have one type of citizen. A full citizen. No exceptions or loopholes. Treat everyone equally. The Biden administration should be ashamed of itself.

[@Muhdah1972]

The Biden administration should be offering a remedy to this long standing debate instead of saying Puerto Ricans aren't citizens unless they are within U.S. borders.

[@clarkhull7546]

@@Muhdah1972 Independence for Puerto Rico!! Free Puerto Rico!

[@dawnpalmby5100]

Totally agree. Biden is trying but is being blocked by lower courts, for instance he tried to end title 42 and is being blocked by a Texas lower court Judge. It's says a lot about America and how it treats asylum seekers, some of the most vulnerable ppl in the world. And the way it treats ppl in its own "territories" is another scuff on the shiney persona of the supposed land of the free

[@dawnpalmby5100]

@@Muhdah1972 the Supreme Court said that, not the Biden administration.

[@Gsoup83]

🤣🤣🤣🤣 it's funny how you blame biden for something that started decades before.

[@diegoconde2728]

Juan, you did great 👍 👍❤️🇵🇷

[@rosalinaayala5963]

If you were a poor sharecropper in Puerto Rico and paid into Social security with meager earnings then you became disabled and only collect 250 dollars a month from disability SSDI was supposed to complete your monthly income so you would not starve. So billions for war and trillions in tax relief for billionaires and nada fkr the starving elderly, blind and disabled of Puerto Rico!

[@kindtimetraveler]

Exactly. And I just heard we left like >$7B worth of military equipment behind (planes, tanks, munitions..you name it) when we hastily exited Afghanistan. But Medicare For All??? No way! We just don’t have the 💵!!!!! Riiiiiight.🖕🙄🖕

[@greymann]

Few, if any poor sharecropper in the U.S. (or Puerto Rico) ever paid into social security. SSDI was never meant to "to complete" your monthly income. Either your family took care of you or you were relegated to the county "poor farm". The U.S. does a pretty good job of taking care of it's poorest citizens. Name me a country that does as well--and if you can, pack your bag and move there.

[@rosalinaayala5963]

@grey man You are totally misinformed about the situation in Puerto Rico We were attacked and annexed by USA and never asked if we wanted to be part of the colonial empire of USA. We were given citizenship so they could draft us for war and tax us for Social Security yet we do not have the same benefits as all of the US citizens do even though we pay into it. It’s a scam as for US taking care of it’s poor there are 15 million people who go hungry in USA and most of them work!

[@greymann]

@@rosalinaayala5963 Hi Rosalina, Puerto Rica was a Spanish colony and the U.S. went to war with Spain due to some dubious accusations (the sinking of the Maine in Cuba) and despicable war mongering by Randolph Hearst. The U.S. took over the Spanish territories/colony of Puerto Rico at the conclusion of that war. (Along with the Philippines and some other minor Spanish possessions. This was 120 years ago. Would you prefer to be a Spanish territory/colony? If so, then vote for it--demand your representatives set up a referendum so the people can vote. You do not pay fed income tax and pay at a fraction of the standard tax rate for limited SS benefits of which you do receive. The U.S. offered citizenship to Puerto Ricans who were free to reject it. Now and then. The U.S. did not takeover administration of Puerto Rica for your extensive manpower in wars. It did so because Puerto Rico was incapable of administering it's own affairs. ( Note that Cuba was after a short period as well as eventually the Philippines.) Puerto Rico is basically a welfare state dependent on the U.S. for it's survival. Finally, where do you come up with the nonsense of 15 million people go hungry in the U.S? We are collectively the fattest people on earth and there are so many free food banks it's ridiculous. Food stamps for 40 million people! ( And because they like to eat like rich folks very few restrictions on what they can purchase.) Be thankful you were born a U.S. citizen and if you're not, vote with your feet and find a better country to live in. ( P.S. And quit listening to those rabble rousers filling your head with lies and nonsense. You aren't old enough to even remember the draft.)

[@Dangic23]

@@greymann The US did impose US citizenship on PR in 1917. Then in 1940 extended Birthright Citizenship to PR. So people in PR are not able to reject US citizenship. It is also impossible for people in PR to renounce US citizenship for PuertoRican citizenship, because it doesn’t exist.

[@davidwhitaker6580]

excellent presentation regarding this SCOTUS and Puerto Rico

[@brusmichiko9151]

Independence for Puerto Rico nothing else

[@karinpine1140]

I don't understand. I've been told that, if I would like to get more quality of life for my Social Security check, I could live in many other countries like Mexico, Portugal, etc. So how on earth is Puerto Rico, an American possession, excluded from places where I can live?

[@jamesmorris201]

Thank you Mr. Gonzalez for a brilliant concise and informative report.

[@ggraves7321]

AOC HAS the SAVVINESS OF AN ATTORNEY OF INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS!!! Juan G. Understands policies past and present like no other- he is a man for all times…. Professor of the ppl extraordinaire!

[@zehrajafri9252]

Let's hope that the judicial system realizes it's important role in forming good societies. 💖💖💖

[@toniagarcia3247]

You sound stupid and naieve and white.

[@ttrons2]

It is slowly progressing very slowly.

[@nycatlady2314]

It’s not the judicial system that’s supposed to be forming good societies! That’s what the legislative branch is for. Vote for congress members who will change these laws. They have the power to amend the constitution if we can elect enough of them who want a better, more inclusive, well educated society.

[@sherrillwhately7586]

Gorsuch is admired by Indigenous American communities for his deep knowledge of Indian law as well.

[@MariaGarcia-by8yg]

meanwhile millions of retired 🇺🇸citizens 🏖 get their money wherever they move to in the world. R.I.C.O. behavior by 🇺🇸US.

[@Kcalien]

Looks like we all were sold out now

[@RocketmanRockyMatrix]

Tell Puerto Rico to vote for their independence, so the US doesn't have to rule over them.

[@ericquiabazza2608]

They have try. But the ñart fo US law that apply is that "No state would become independant". So not only they CANT be hear, they cant even speak or try to get out.

[@TheMDM1956]

@@ericquiabazza2608 Puerto Rico has been hijacked by the US as have all Latin American nations on a smaller scale considering they do not "officially" belong to the US (but they do, if you know what I mean)!

[@RocketmanRockyMatrix]

@@ericquiabazza2608 Puerto Rico is an American territory, not a state.

[@clarkhull7546]

@@ericquiabazza2608 they completely have the ability to become independent if they wish. They ( the people of Puerto Rico ) consistently vote against it

[@RocketmanRockyMatrix]

@@ericquiabazza2608 Puerto Rico needs their independence from US rule. Have Puerto Ricans on the Mainland voice their concerns and demand the islands independence.

[@henrypagan3426]

Read the book War against all Puerto Ricans by Nelson Dennis. It details the genocide and atrocities perpetrated on Puerto Rican people by the US .

[@Boricua_USAF]

That book is not a reliable source, its has many distorted facts and complete bs

[@robertahearn4489]

Yes the let big pharma companies experiment drugs on Puerto Rico's People It's a TRAVESTY

[@Boricua_USAF]

@@robertahearn4489 more unadulterated BS from people who only repeat what they are told to repeat.

[@meancookie89]

But Puerto Rican love all the WP and US What you saying Plus PR makes all our drugs :)

[@antonbrakhage490]

I must say, I never would have imagined that Gorsuch of all justices would be on the right side on this. I'm glad to be surprised, and the other two liberal justices (aside from Sotomayor) really need to step up their game if a Trump appointee is doing a better job of challenging American colonialism than they are. Hopefully when Justice Jackson is sworn in, she'll help shift the court further on this issue.

[@michaelearl6765]

Gorsuch has also been pretty consistent in ruling in favor of native American tribes who are trying to hold states to the letter of their old treaties, so it shouldn't be a total surprise. He is at least pretty sincere in his textualism.

[@marceloorellana5726]

But he still voted on the wrong side. Only Sotomayor dissented.

[@oeilarry]

Trump had nothing to do with the formation of Justice Gorsuch's sense of right or wrong. It was most likely in place well before Trump ran for office. He's just a decent person and thankfully, will be in his current role for life.

[@acetorres8787]

Their job just interpreted the law not rewrite

[@holycrapchris]

@@marceloorellana5726 The lawsuit was about a law from the 1970s, which the Court needs to interpret and rule on. That law was found not to violate the Constitution. Gorsuch took the opportunity in his opinion to discuss the Insular Cases, which are not laws, but past rulings. He broadcast to the world that he will vote to overturn those, should a case make it to the Supreme Court. But he can't vote to overturn those if a party before the court doesn't bring it up.

[@MSPUKIMOLIELIE]

Yeyy Juan....great case analysis.

[@cheri238]

Much love to Amy and Quan and to the team of Democracy Now. ❤️

[@lapinchechismosa]

Juan ❤️

[@ripadipaflipa4672]

Should b watch daily. Democratic now is one of the best news.

[@ripadipaflipa4672]

I hope that everyone looking for a great news show watch’s Democratic Now. Never disappoints.

[@gregmarsh1549]

What a great presentation!

[@charlespetite3347]

I am well pleased to be alive looking at the scales and chains of hate fall and break," soon and i pray that those who put others in chains be chained forever.

[@alexgoslar4057]

Thank you, Juan. Very important report.

[@shelanderson9088]

So glad you gave me such a good understanding

[@jamigaither]

Providing a link to the referenced support from Gorsuch in the video details would help us read it in full. Just a thought. Thanks for reading this much of it to us, Juan, and proving understanding.

[@davidbennett9691]

The Supreme Court has a website where opinions are posted.

[@Springsinger1]

Thank you! God bless Democracy Now!

[@mr72rosalind]

Juan did an excellent job in explaining this U.S. Supreme Court ruling.

[@bbirda1287]

I thought Juan Gonzales misspoke when he said "Back in the United States" because it implies that Puerto Rico is not part of the US, but given the circumstances that is the actual facts on the ground. Give em a star on the flag or set them free.

[@Ms.Byrd68]

Exactly. This 'governmental/legal limbo' status has long since gotten OLD!

[@haraldschuster3067]

Can't - they're a cash cow for a few % of the 1%. Or - in other words - campaign donors.

[@HarlemSexyBlaqkat]

WTF! are they giving back their social security back! WOW

[@jaimelaureano6649]

BINGO ... "We The People" are next.

[@OmarMAli-jx3uz]

Justice Gorsuch is truly a hero to me. I am not an American, but I love American constitutionalism and I enjoyed reading the book "a Republic if you can keep it" by Justice Gorsuch. I recommend everyone to read it if they have time.

[@mateomelendez9745]

I am glad Justices Gorsuch and Sotomayor spoke spoke the truth. Mr. González, I thank you for the clear explanation.

[@celticman1909]

Full State hood for Pureto Rico. That's what is needed.

[@JK-gu3tl]

Independence

[@human533]

That is out right “colonialism”…

[@rogercarroll1663]

Thank you. Great insight.

[@r.pres.4121]

Statehood for Puerto Rico NOW! They are fellow Americans and deserve to be fully integrated into the union as the 51st state.

[@TallyRocky]

So…I get SSI and I can move to a community in Mexico or Ecuador (or anywhere else in the world) and live there and keep collecting it. But I can’t move to Puerto Rico and do the same? Am I missing something?

[@greymann]

Yes, you don't know the difference between various programs of the SS system and their requirements and restrictions. ( Such as disability working, indigent or never worked due to disability.)

[@tammiepulley7167]

Wonderful report! Thank you Juan.

[@skepticaloptimist7444]

So much I didn't know about Puerto Rico. Thank you!

[@henrypagan3426]

Viva Puerto Rico libre. Independence for Puerto Rico.

[@dawnpalmby5100]

I'd really like to hear a deep dive on Puerto Rico, the history, the imperialist takeover, what's happening, and very much not happening bc it's a territory - incorporated or not?!

[@coachdavidjoubert7112]

I invite you to look for the book: "War Against All Puertorricans" so you can get a background of the history s since the invasion of the US.

[@jctorres4607]

@@coachdavidjoubert7112 I give this book often as a gift to my friends and family. Thanks for mentioning it.

[@otishudson3113]

I need too learn about Puerto Rico history. I want too know why Puerto Ricans seniors can't receive benefits. I

[@coachdavidjoubert7112]

@@otishudson3113 just do a KZbin search for the Insular Cases. There you will understand how in 2022, we still live by the ancient predicament of thinking the people of PR are savages and unworthy of living by the constitution of the US.

[@otishudson3113]

@@coachdavidjoubert7112 Thanks. I feel really bad not knowing the history.

[@jameschant2740]

Very interesting history and analysis of Puerto Rico's colonial legacy under US domination from Mr. Gonzalez. Puerto Rico is long overdue to receive full entitlement to benefits whether or not they live in the US mainland or not when you look at all the political and economic exploitation they've dealt with as well as the blatant racism they've had to endure from US government officials.

[@bosatsu76]

Most excellent explanation on anything that I have heard in a long time...

[@danielcmore5863]

Thank you for your insight

[@bernardscheidle5679]

Once again the White Man gets to decide who is Human, and who is Sub-Human.

[@goognamgoognw6637]

United-Statians need to get out of Puerto Rico that they annexed and also out of Hawaii that they invaded and annexed as well.

[@BoricuaNyc]

I agree

[@skip031890]

You people need to grow up. The world is about gaining power, control, sustainability and preservation of ones own people. The strong survive and the weak perish. This is the real world. Get over it.

[@goognamgoognw6637]

@@skip031890 Usa hegemony will be its own destruction.

[@thelion521]

The Plantation owners great,great grand children are running the ship.

[@jaysonwohnne]

wow man. just absolutely wow.

[@VernonNickersonSCHOOLCOACH]

Thanks Sr. JUAN GONZALEZ and Sra. AMY GOODMAN for reporting on Puerto Rico. All this time, I believed Puerto Ricans were USA citizens! I am impressed (?) And APPALLED that this has gone on right before our eyes. Once upon a time, was any Civil Rights organization demanding justice for Puerto Rican people? Was LaRaza, NAACP, quietly fighting to right this egregious wrong?

[@davidwebster8245]

They should do it on their own, why ask others to help them.

[@Boricua_USAF]

the problem is not the citizenship, the problem is the residence

[@michaeldunson2531]

The people of Puerto Rico have the chance to vote to be a state or independent, they choose the status qua so I don't know what they expect!

[@bonnierobinson8684]

Sometimes I feel I no longer live in America. We have lost our love for our brothers and Sisters. God must be so disappointed in America.

[@GoodJuju.8D]

@@davidwebster8245 Do you not help another if you see they are struggling?? We are a modern society. There are rules: written and unwritten. Compassion, kindness, and (most importantly) empathy are what brought about the end of slavery and other obvious cruel injustices. There is a long, long way to go to right the wrongs, but those who care will continue the fight. Where do you stand?

[@cynthialangley7338]

Thank you Juan. You are awesome!!! 🌟

[@michealtom3243]

Hello beautiful damsel ❤️ how are you doing today..

[@jleigh4886]

Thank you. Refreshing to hear you tell it like it is.

[@wdy922]

The Puerto Rican people have voted for "self-determination" at least 3 times in my lifetime, each time they have chosen to remain a commonwealth of the US. That is just fact.

[@betancourt10fitness54]

Most recently they voted for Statehood...twice actually first one being in 2012. However Cosgress didn't like a low voter turnout so they threw those results out the window.

[@jjcc-yr4bk]

Aoc is right

[@miguelestrada3157]

Puerto Rico must seek its independence, from colonial rule ! AOC details that the present situation is not acceptable; metaphorically imo, it is one of slave and master. Boricuas are culturally, ethnically and linguistically closer to Cuba than Arkansas. That beautiful island should re-join the Caribbean family of progressive nations, not become the mistreated # 51 star in the flag of the United States.

[@Snipergoat1]

Every time we have asked the people of PR neither wanted to become a US State nor did they want full independence. The benefits of being part of the US are many and people are understandably reluctant to give them up yet by not fully integrating to statehood they they continue to exist in this legal limbo. Chose one so that your rights and responsibility will be far more clear.

[@miguelestrada3157]

@@Snipergoat1 Who is we ? A referendum on the political status of Puerto Rico was held in Puerto Rico on June 11, 2017. The referendum had three options: becoming a state of the United States, independence/free association, or maintaining the current territorial status. Those who voted overwhelmingly chose statehood by 97% not as you say to remain in limbo. So if that is what they want, 100% they should become that 51 st star !!! However as the contradictions of colonialism, second rate citizenship, the sell out of the island as a tax haven and the futile effort to improve the service of electricity, continues to deepen a change in attitude, may just be around the corner, historically speaking. I myself support full independence, but if the majority wishes differently, so be it in a democracy. What is that Joe Momma about ? Homeboy use your name .

[@ivonnelopez7]

Gracias Miguel.

[@Snipergoat1]

@@miguelestrada3157 Holy crap something must have changed quite a bit. I did not know about 2017 ballot. There was always a strong anti statehood sentiment. Of course, the last time I was there the Visques firing range was still open so my information is rather out of date. What has changed to cause such a dramatic shift in popular opinion and what barriers are keeping you out of statehood? If that many people want in it there has got to be something substantial holding you out. It's not like it's a security thing since you already can freely travel the US. Forgive my ignorance. This needs looking into.

[@miguelestrada3157]

@@Snipergoat1 No ignorance at all, there is much misinformation out there. The present colonial status is very favorable as a tax haven for venture capitalists and foreign real estate to buy up rental properties in the most scenic ocean front areas, pricing natives out.. We cannot allow PR to become another Hawaii or Oklahoma, were the native population is now a minority. Young Puerto Ricans are returning to the land to grow a sustainable agriculture, not for the export profit of a few, but to feed el pueblo.

[@tomg6498]

Term limits are a must!

[@ileanahernandez1709]

!Viva Puerto Rico Libre! Independence now!

[@RobinHerzig]

Let the voting begin for our Boriqua sisters + brothers❗

[@clownpenisfart]

The Insular Cases means that the Supreme Court would have sided with King George III over the colonies.

[@NellieKAdaba]

🤔

[@CaptainNymo]

Justice Gorsuch candor never fail to amaze me.

[@Yell5651]

It is outrageous. Time to change those laws. And to clean up the supreme court.

[@cindywagoner4392]

I'm for Puerto Rico !

[@clarkhull7546]

When's the last time you were there?

[@michealtom3243]

Hey

[@rda976]

Great reporting! I appreciate how thorough everything is presented.

[@fahlici1801]

Juan Gonzalez makes no sense by all means. A claim for sovereignty or claim for bankruptcy while in the process of justifying what. The Federal government is what A.O.C has in mind. It will lead to debt, and a backlog of empty promises. Transparency is better than than fallibility. But i"f you claim bankruptcy what's to buy into." You not managing well enough alone, the federal crutches will become permanent obstacles in route to sovereignty

[@nojremlock6826]

Then, that is what Puerto Rico needs to bring to the Courts...

[@mitchellkrouth5083]

Thank you

[@christopherbrown6891]

Maybe it’s time for Puerto Rico to go shopping around like some other islands have recently.🤷‍♂️ You want to see shit happen fast, invite some CCP officials over for a visit.

[@cryptbeast3222]

They should do this but I don't know if they can. I don't think the U.S. gov would allow it.

[@kesart8378]

The lethal neglect of Puerto Rican hurricane victims--"I really don't care, do U?"--during the Trump administration should rank as a bona fide human rights crime. So many died needlessly due to a policy of cruel indifference toward the needs of people of colour. Today, whether one looks to Puerto Rico, or to Washington D.C., or to the Virgin islands, one can find people who are born into U.S. citizenship, but lack representation in the American Congress, and/or cannot vote in national elections. The era of colonialism, which many thought a relic of the past, lives on in American policies towards American citizens in protectorates, on reservations, or in the poor neighbourhoods of the American capital

[@42TALIYAH]

Wow. Just wow!!!

[@Miapetdragon69]

I absolutely agree I'm Puerto Rican why should my taxes and stuff go to something that I cannot collect or my ancestors or the rest of my family that's still there just because I'm here on the quote mainland.

[@skeptick6513]

May i suggest- How to Hide an Empire: A History of the Greater United States by Daniel Immerwahr

[@kennethmorrison7689]

Full independence free from the US!

[@growden100]

Justice Sonia speaking up for P. R. Citizens. Thank you.

[@silverforest4682]

I'm glad he is challenging this.