lessened
federal
level
of
control
and
authority.
For
example,
the Department of
the
Interior,
the primary
administrative
agency for the territories, has undergone a significant shift in
responsibility as the territories have progressed.
This shift
is discussed in greater detail in chapter 6.
The implication of
this trend in the future political relationship between the
territories and the United States is not clear; however, the
territories
are
pressing
for
greater
voice
and
representation
within the federal system and are seeking greater clarification
of their
States,
political
and
economic
relationship
with
the
United
Territories want
greater representation
.
Voting representation in the Congress
guaranteed only to state residents.
The
NMI,
have
some
representation
through
is constitutionally
territories, except
nonvoting
delegates
who
serve in the U.S. House of Representatives.
These delegates
serve on and may vote in committee.
However, the territories
are not represented in the U.S. Senate, and its residents may
not vote in presidential elections.
More
issues
representation
in
Congress
in U.S.-territory relations.
and
voting
rights
are
For example, advocates for
Puerto Rico's statehood believe that only statehood status would
"give Puerto
Ricans
political
presidential
elections."
are
In
and economic equality,
full participation in the U.S.
including
Congress and the right to vote in
The other
territories
believe
their
current representation does not fully ensure that their concerns
heard.
1981,
the
delegates
from
the
Virgin
Islands,
American Samoa, and Guam introduced legislation to provide a
Presidential vote for their territories.
In addition, several
bills have been introduced to provide full voting representation
in the ‘House of Representatives.
So
lative proposals have been enacted.
far,
none of
these
legis-
POLITICAL STATUS REMAINS AN ISSUE
While the U.S. policy of self-determination has helped the
territories to develop politically,
it provides no specific
guidance on ultimate status or goals and milestones for economic
and
social
development.
As
a
result,
several
territories
reexamining their political status with the United
search for a more clearly defined relationship.
States
are
in
Puerto Rico
Of all the current territories, Puerto Rico has had the
longest history of self-government.
Even before attaining commonwealth status in 1952, Puerto Rico's residents have debated
political status with the United States.
Public opinion is
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