2020 Democratic Candidates Join Calls for Puerto Rico Gov. Ricardo Rosselló to Step Down
“Puerto Ricans have the right to democracy and all federal support to get out of the crisis,” Sen. Bernie Sanders said.
Gabriella N. Baez/Reuters
Several 2020 Democratic presidential candidates joined calls for Puerto Rican Governor Ricardo Rosselló to step down on Saturday as protesters continued to take to the streets to demand his resignation. Thousands have expressed outrage over leaked homophobic and sexist chat messages that appeared to show Rosselló making light of Hurricane Maria victims and insulting journalists. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI) joined the protests in the capital of San Juan on Friday, and many other candidates followed suit Saturday and expressed support for protesters. Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) expressed solidarity with the protesters, saying “they’re right to demand the new leadership they deserve.” Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), who’s mother is from Puerto Rico, deployed the #RickyRenuncia (Ricky, resign!) hashtag and commended the creativity and resilience of the protesters, saying that “it’s about the people discovering the power they’ve always had.”
Former vice president Joe Biden said Roselló’s comments were shameful, and that “the people of Puerto Rico will be heard, and they will decide who leads their government.” Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) said “Puerto Ricans have the right to democracy and all federal support to get out of the crisis.” Sens. Amy Klobuchar and Kamala D. Harris also tweeted support for the protesters on Saturday, as well as Mayor Pete Buttigieg and Beto O’Rourke.
I've been standing with the people of Puerto Rico in their protests against corruption and their governor’s behavior. The people have spoken—loud and clear: @RicardoRossello should resign. https://t.co/cdqSC59GlM
— Elizabeth Warren (@ewarren) July 19, 2019
The hateful comments we have seen from Governor Ricardo Rossello are unacceptable. As the days and nights of protests continue, the people of Puerto Rico are standing up and making their voices heard. They will determine their future.
— Amy Klobuchar (@amyklobuchar) July 20, 2019
The only path to justice for the people of Puerto Rico is to speak truth against divisive and corrupt leaders. I stand with them as they protest and demand accountability.
— Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) July 20, 2019
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