Puerto Rico / U.S. - For the first time, a majority of Puerto
Ricans voted in favor of statehood. Nearly 1.8 million voters in
Puerto Rico participated in elections even though residents of
the island itself cannot vote in the U.S. presidential contest.
Voters were asked in a two-part non-binding referendum whether
they want to change the island's territorial status and then
what other status they prefer. Nearly 54 percent voted they were
not satisfied with the island's current status and 46 percent
voted to keep it the same. Just over 61 percent voted in favor
of statehood and 33 percent backed sovereign free association,
which would have allowed more self-governance. Only 5 percent
supported independence, according to results. Even though island
residents can not vote for President, Puerto Ricans who live in
one of the 50 states can vote in the presidential elections.
This year, the Puerto Rican vote was especially crucial in
Florida. (The AP contributed to this story)