‘I feel robbed’: the millions of residents in US territories like Puerto Rico who can’t vote in presidential race

After a comedian at a Trump rally described Puerto Rico as ‘garbage’, old resentments were fired up, as residents say it’s unfair to be disfranchised in elections

Donald Trump’s Madison Square Garden rally was meant to be a triumphant return to the city that made his name. Instead, the event has reheated simmering tensions on the island territory of Puerto Rico, where locals say they feel like second-class citizens, days out from a historic US election.

Comments from a comedian at Trump’s rally this week, describing Puerto Rico as a “floating island of garbage”, might have fired up local resentment against the Republican candidate, but those who live there will be unable to show their anger through the ballot box.

‘I feel robbed’: the millions of residents in US territories like Puerto Rico who can’t vote in presidential race

Topics

Related

Here's why millions of Americans in Puerto Rico, other territories can't vote for president

Americans in Puerto Rico can't vote for US president. Their anger at Trump is shaping the race

US presidential election updates: Republicans in damage control after racist Puerto Rico comments at Trump rally

In Puerto Rico governor’s race, the statehood candidate who's pro-Trump edges ahead

US election 2024 live: Donald Trump says ‘we made history’ as he closes in on victory with win in Pennsylvania

Who is comedian Tony Hinchcliffe, who insulted Puerto Rico at Trump's Madison Square Garden rally?

Puerto Rico governor's race is upended by a third party for the first time in 70 years

As Trump courts the Latino vote, comedian Tony Hinchcliffe makes racist jokes at MSG rally

Americanswers... on 5 Live! Could a joke about Puerto Rico give Kamala Harris the Latino vote?

More from The Guardian

Revealed: Saudi Arabia accused of modifying official Cop29 negotiating text

Jaguar boss defends new ad and rebrand amid ‘vile hatred’ online

Andy Murray to coach Novak Djokovic for Australian Open

Masked gang broke into home of Conor McGregor accuser, Dublin court was told

Hamas says Israeli female hostage killed in north Gaza combat zone