[Page S5076]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                              PUERTO RICO

  Mr. SCHUMER. Madam President, finally, one more point on Puerto Rico. 
Last night, the Governor of Puerto Rico, Ricardo Rossello, announced he 
will resign on August 2. I am glad that the Governor has listened to 
the voices of the people of Puerto Rico. It is clear he lost their 
trust, their respect, and certainly the mandate to govern. The most 
important thing now is a quick and orderly transition of power so that 
our fellow citizens on the island can turn the page on this difficult 
chapter and move forward.
  No matter what, we have to stand with the people of Puerto Rico. The 
island is still a far way off from recovery after the devastation of 
recent hurricanes. It is essential that the local Puerto Rican economy 
continue to recover and that basic services performed by the government 
continue undisturbed as that process continues.
  As a new Governor enters office, we pledge to do whatever we can to 
ensure the people of Puerto Rico receive the aid and the support they 
need. We fought incredibly hard on the disaster bill to make sure the 
people of Puerto Rico are not treated worse than any other U.S. 
citizens. The events of the past 2 weeks should in no way inhibit that 
aid from reaching the island quickly and efficiently. It is so badly 
needed. I will be watching and doing everything in my power to 
guarantee that is the case.
  I suggest the absence of a quorum.
  The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tempore. The clerk will call the roll.
  The senior assistant legislative clerk proceeded to call the roll.
  Mrs. MURRAY. Madam President, I ask unanimous consent that the order 
for the quorum call be rescinded.
  The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tempore. Without objection, it is so 
ordered.

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