Politics & Government Guide · Puerto RicoPolitics & Government Guide in Puerto Rico
Political system, governance structure, stability indicators, and democratic institutions
Puerto Rico operates as a U.S. commonwealth with a republican government featuring an elected governor and bicameral legislature. Jenniffer González-Colón of the pro-statehood New Progressive Party assumed office as governor in January 2025 following her 2024 election victory. Ongoing debates focus on political status amid recent plebiscites favoring statehood.
Government Type
Republican commonwealth in association with the United States
Legal System
Civil law system based on Spanish civil code and influenced by U.S. federal law
Head of State
President of the United States Joseph R. Biden Jr.(since 2021)
Head of Government
Governor Jenniffer González-Colón(New Progressive Party)since 2025
Legislature
Major Political Parties
Center-right, pro-statehood
Center-left, pro-commonwealth
Left-wing, pro-independence
Voting Rights
Puerto Ricans are U.S. citizens with full voting rights in local elections for governor and legislature. No vote in U.S. presidential elections or for voting members of U.S. Congress; elects non-voting Resident Commissioner.
Recent Developments
- Jenniffer González-Colón elected governor in November 2024 general election
- Non-binding plebiscite on political status held November 2024 with statehood option
- New Progressive Party secured legislative majorities in 2024 elections
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