A study by the Institute for Social Research and the University of Puerto Rico found that 50% of Puerto Ricans believe most or all elected politicians in Puerto Rico are corrupt. The study, which surveyed 1,266 residents between April and November 2025, also revealed that 63% of residents feel the local government does not attend to their needs, and 71% believe their voice is not heard in government decisions.
The study’s findings show a deep disconnect between residents and their government, with only 13% of respondents approving of Governor Jenniffer González’s performance. Additionally, 72% of respondents believe the Puerto Rican government has little to no power to make independent decisions without federal intervention. The study also found that 35% of respondents support the current political status, 32% support statehood, and 18% support independence.
The research highlights a weakening relationship between political party affiliation and preference for Puerto Rico’s political status.