自一九五二年由美國的屬地成為自由邦聯後，波多黎各經歷了三次決定其定位的 公民投票 (一九六七、一九九三、一九九八 )。由於主張將波多黎各合併成為美國第五十一 州和支持維持現狀的兩股力量幾乎是不相上下，且代表此兩個立場的政黨也交互執政，因此 波多黎各的定位始終無法有效的予以解決。除了波多黎各本身的僵持局面外，美國政府的立 場也是關鍵。雖然美國最近的幾任總統都表示會尊重波多黎各人民所作的決定，但是國會結 終未能通過相關的法案，讓波多黎各的公民投票具有法律效力。

　　　　　Since becoming a free associated state of the US in 1952, Puerto Rico has experienced three plebiscites regarding its political future (1967,1993, and 1998). Because the two sides that support statehood and status quo respectively have been evenly matched, Puerto Ricans have failed to effectively solve the problems surrounding its political status. In addition to the gridlock in Puerto Rico, the position taken by the U.S. government is also a key factor. Even though, of late, most American presidents have indicated that they would support the decision of Puerto Rican people, the Congress has yet to pass a law making plebiscites in Puerto Rico lawbinding.