Draft Order Suggests Puerto Rico Independence Could Save US Billions
A draft executive order circulating among congressional offices proposes making Puerto Rico an independent nation — arguing that the move would save the U.S. government over $617 billion. The document — which has reportedly been reviewed by top administration officials — lays out a framework for transitioning the island away from U.S. territorial status.
According to sources — at least two members of Congress have copies of the draft — and staffers from the Senate Energy & Natural Resources Committee have held discussions on the proposal. The draft order has also reportedly been shared with Secretary of State Marco Rubio — White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard.
The proposed plan includes a timeline for phasing out birthright citizenship for Puerto Ricans born after December 31 — 2026. It also calls for the creation of the Executive Transition Commission — which would manage Puerto Rico’s shift to full independence while ensuring financial stability.
Under the plan — Puerto Rico would receive $36 billion per year for 20 years to support its transition. Supporters argue this would ultimately reduce federal spending — which is currently projected to reach $1.37 trillion over the next 50 years in maintaining Puerto Rico as a U.S. territory.
The White House has not confirmed any official stance on the draft — and President Trump has not indicated whether he would support such a measure. While some lawmakers are pushing for independence — the majority of Puerto Ricans have consistently favored statehood in recent non-binding referendums.
Concerns over Puerto Rico’s future have been heightened following Trump’s executive order designating English as the official language of the U.S. Critics argue the move could complicate Puerto Rico’s territorial status — where Spanish is the primary language.
