Hispanic Federation Joins Puerto Ricans In Demanding Accountability for Primary Election Chaos Caused By Insufficient Ballots

For Immediate Release: Aug. 10, 2020

Contact:
Gebe Martinez
gebe.gmnetworking@gmail.com
703-731-9505

“Every vote must count.” — Frankie Miranda, Hispanic Federation President

NEW YORK — Hispanic Federation and other civic groups are demanding transparency and accountability for the turmoil that erupted Sunday in Puerto Rico when thousands of voters were denied their right to vote in the island’s primary election because several precincts did not receive ballots.

The State Elections Commission (CEE) suspended voting at several voting centers when the ballots did not arrive and later announced voting would resume on next Sunday, August 16.

The following is a statement by Hispanic Federation President Frankie Miranda:

“There is no practice more essential to a successful democracy than voting. For decades, Puerto Rico has proudly held the distinction of a globally recognized model for free and fair elections. Our election process has been celebrated and studied by others hoping to replicate the consistently high voter participation rates and trusted results. This makes the unprecedented electoral chaos that transpired in yesterday’s primaries and the resulting violations of citizens’ right to vote all the more appalling and unacceptable.

“However, the primary process does not end here. There is an immediate and urgent need for accountability, transparency, and to ensure that every citizen can fully exercise their constitutional right to vote. Hispanic Federation urges the Puerto Rico State Election Commission (CEE), the current government administration, and political parties to leave behind their own political interests and focus on their duty to redeem the legitimacy and constitutionality of the current primary election process and upcoming general elections. Every vote must count.

“Hispanic Federation will continue to work alongside our partner organizations to protect the voting rights of every citizen on the island. We cannot allow these events to threaten our democracy. Now more than ever we all must be alert and vote to ensure the will of the people is carried out.”