In a nonbinding referendum , Puerto Ricans voted on island 's status as a U.S. commonwealth . A majority rejected the current status and favored statehood as an alternative . It is the first time a majority of voters chose statehood . The vote was held in November 2016 with about half of eligible residents voting yes to independence from the United States.
In a nonbinding referendum , Puerto Ricans voted on island 's status as a U.S. commonwealth . A majority rejected the current status and favored statehood as an alternative . It is the first time a majority of voters chose statehood . But analysts find problems drawing conclusions from the vote .