Congressman Ritchie Torres Condemns Trump’s Firing of Puerto Rico Oversight Appointees

NEW YORK, Aug. 27, 2025 - In a strongly worded statement today, U.S. Representative Ritchie Torres publicly denounced President Donald Trump’s decision to remove key Democratic appointees responsible for overseeing the fiscal recovery of Puerto Rico. Posting on X at 12:23 p.m. EDT, Torres accused the administration of undermining bipartisan efforts to restore the island’s economy and protect its residents’ financial interests.

Torres argued that the firings jeopardize the Commonwealth’s fragile progress under the Puerto Rico Oversight, Management, and Economic Stability Act (PROMESA). “These individuals brought expertise and accountability to the table,” he wrote. “Removing them without transparent justification is an affront to the Puerto Rican people who have endured years of economic hardship.”

The Bronx congressman, who chairs the House Subcommittee on the Census, has consistently advocated for equitable treatment of U.S. territories. He warned that the abrupt personnel changes could stall critical debt-restructuring negotiations and leave Puerto Rico more vulnerable to its creditors.

Earlier today, Torres also reiterated his unwavering support for Israel in an interview with CBN News, acknowledging the “hatred and even death threats” he has received over his stance but emphasizing the need for principled leadership. He described the backlash as “the price of standing up for what’s right” and affirmed his commitment to both his New York constituents and international allies.

The Trump administration has not publicly explained the rationale behind the dismissals. A White House spokesperson referred questions to the Office of Management and Budget, where officials declined immediate comment. Congressional Democrats, led by Torres, have vowed to hold oversight hearings and demand clarity on the decision’s impact on Puerto Rico’s ongoing financial restructuring.