In her inaugural address, González Colón promises to address energy challenges ‘with urgency and empathy,’ urging Congress on statehood, which ‘implies equality’.
By John McPhaul
jpmcphaul1@gmail.com
Governor Jenniffer Aidyn González Colón stated on Thursday during her inaugural message in front of the Capitol in San Juan that addressing the issues of electrical power and advocating for statehood through the New Progressive Party’s mayors and legislators will rank among her top priorities as Puerto Rico’s new leader.
“Our island faces numerous challenges. The latest was the blackout that left us without power during our year-end festivities,” the newly appointed governor remarked. “This drives me to confront this first challenge with urgency and sensitivity and utilize the federal funds we obtain from Congress, ensuring that we finally have a reliable electrical system that does not fail us in our times of need.”
“I am committed to a Puerto Rico that rises up,” González Colón declared. “And you know what? I won’t govern solely for those who supported me. I aim to be the governor for all Puerto Ricans. But let me tell you, in Puerto Rico, there will be order, there will be listening, and there will be respect. There will be collaboration, and anyone who wishes to work will find their doors open to push Puerto Rico forward. The citizens are weary of divisions; the primaries are behind us.”
The former two-term resident commissioner and now governor underscored that “the inequality endured by the people of Puerto Rico will be confronted with all my strength.”
“Poverty is one of the elements that led Puerto Ricans to vote overwhelmingly in prior elections for equality for everyone in Puerto Rico,” she expressed. “Today I also acknowledge Senate President Tom Rivera Schatz and House Speaker Johnny Méndez, as well as the mayors and legislators who will assist me in bringing the outcome of this election to Congress, where our people, once again freely and willingly, overwhelmingly chose statehood. And statehood signifies equality.”
The governor was officially sworn in around 8 a.m. on Thursday, then attended a Mass at Santa Teresita Church in Santurce. Following that, she and her family proceeded to the Capitol for the public inauguration events.
Several protests occurred during the day’s proceedings.
Police intervened with demonstrators on the Dos Hermanos Bridge in San Juan that morning.
According to initial reports, police were managing traffic when a group of protesters obstructed the road and were instructed by the police to disperse. Several individuals were arrested for not complying with the directive.
No injuries were reported, and the identities of those arrested remain undisclosed.
González Colón did not respond Thursday morning to an incident that occurred while she was at Mass on Loíza Street, where a protester shouted during the service.
“I came here to listen, and all I heard was the word of God,” González Colón told reporters as she left the church with her husband, physician José Yovín Vargas. “This word is far stronger and more powerful than hate.”
