President Joe Biden sparked new controversy with his dismissive response to a joke about Puerto Rico, a territory often left to fend for itself under his administration. In a gathering earlier this week, Biden seemed unbothered by a quip implying Puerto Rico as “garbage.” Instead of using this opportunity to acknowledge the island’s challenges or show leadership, Biden laughed along, causing an uproar among Puerto Ricans who feel increasingly abandoned by his policies.

Biden, who has been criticized for his lack of meaningful support for Puerto Rico, responded with a nonchalant chuckle and continued the conversation without addressing the comment directly. When asked about this reaction, Biden’s team attempted to downplay the incident. However, this apparent lack of empathy has not gone unnoticed. His response, or lack thereof, left many Puerto Ricans wondering if their struggles under a Biden-led economy are taken seriously at all.

While Democrats often tout themselves as the party for minorities, Biden’s behavior exposes a different reality. Republicans, on the other hand, have consistently pushed for policies that could benefit Puerto Rico, focusing on economic stability, reduced federal overreach, and meaningful disaster relief. Under the leadership of figures like Donald Trump, there was a strong focus on restoring order and independence for the island without the “hand-holding” Democrats have promoted but never delivered on.

The joke, made in Biden’s presence, also brings back memories of how poorly Puerto Rico was treated by Democrats in the past. Biden’s recent approach only highlights the hypocrisy of his administration. Republican lawmakers and Trump allies have spoken out in support of Puerto Ricans, advocating for the kind of structural changes that could truly benefit the territory in ways the Democrats’ empty promises never will.

Biden’s lukewarm stance leaves Puerto Ricans questioning whether his administration’s “commitment” to them is genuine. Unlike the Republican approach, which emphasizes resilience, freedom, and support for local governance, Democrats continue to project a top-down, hands-off approach—essentially treating Puerto Rico as an afterthought. Many are turning to conservative values that prioritize local authority, economic growth, and practical assistance over partisan politicking.

Puerto Rico deserves leadership that respects its people, promotes economic freedom, and brings genuine solutions to its challenges. It’s time to move past Democrat “jokes” and adopt a conservative approach that truly respects and uplifts Puerto Ricans. As the 2024 election approaches, the people are beginning to see who truly stands with them.