Here is what I posted to another forum member with regards to a change in status for the island.
My understanding of the situation is something like this.
The residents of the island cannot vote on changing the status of the island, they can only vote to petition the government of the United States to change the islands status.
So let's assume that a referendum is held and 80% of the residents chose one of the available options. The results would then be presented to the U.S. to show the residents of the island are in agreement and to petition a change in status.
A change in status is not automatic upon completion of the referendum, it must be approved by the U.S. government.
Let's say the residents of the island voted for Independence. It would not be granted because the U.S. doesn't want the bad publicity that comes from allowing over 3 million former citizens to slide deeper into poverty, corruption, and lawlessness. Even though the residents of the island wanted Independence, the U.S. government will be blamed for any negative consequences that occur as a result.
Let's say the residents of the island voted for statehood, it would also not be granted. The addition of Puerto Rico as a state would also mean an additional 2 senators and 5 representatives. If the seven new congress critters lean Democrat the Republicans will vote against statehood. If the the seven new congress critters lean Republican, the Democrats will vote against statehood.
Given this scenario, IMHO, just as the sun rises in the east and sets in the west, the status of the island will not change in the foreseeable future.
I told my dad and brother, who live in Aguadilla, that change would not come by way of the islands government, but by way of Wall Street.
Dad tells me all the professionals, (doctors, lawyers, engineers, etc), are making an exodus from the island.
Sad, but until the current crop of politicos is sent packing, I don't see a change happening.
Best Regards
Sergio