Summary: The Puerto Rican government is responding to reports that there has been a major undercounting of fatalities linked to hurricane Irma. The governor has asked for a recount and review of all deaths post-Irma. Initial estimates were 64 deaths, but new estimates are expected to exceed 1,000 deaths. Many of these fatalities are due to medical equipment not working after prolonged power outages and outbreaks of bacterial infections.
Source: http://wapo.st/2jbGvVq
Analysis: The Trump administration’s response will likely be a point of attack for the democratic challenger in the 2020 presidential elections. Critics hold that Trump’s response to the devastation left by hurricane Maria has was not equal to the aid received by mainland communities hit by hurricanes Harvey and Irma. The president’s response, and public comments, do not appear to acknowledge equal rights for the Puerto Rican victims. However, after the invasion of Puerto Rico during the Spanish-American War (Spring of 1889), General Nelson Miles made the following declaration:
To the Inhabitants of Puerto Rico:
In the prosecution of the war against the kingdom of Spain by the people of the United States, in the cause of liberty, justice, and humanity, its military forces have come to occupy the island of Puerto Rico. They come bearing the banner of freedom, inspired by a noble purpose to seek the enemies of our country and yours, and to destroy or capture all who are in armed resistance. They bring you the fostering arm of a free people, whose greatest power is in its justice and humanity to all those living within its fold. Hence the first effect of this occupation will be the immediate release from your former relations, and it is hoped a cheerful acceptance of the government of the United States. The chief object of the American military forces will be to overthrow the armed authority of Spain, and to give the people of your beautiful island the largest measure of liberty consistent with this occupation. We have not come to make war upon the people of a country that for centuries has been oppressed, but, on the contrary, to bring you protection, not only to yourselves, but to your property; to promote your prosperity, and bestow upon you the immunities and blessings of the liberal institutions of our government. It is not our purpose to interfere with any existing laws and customs that are wholesome and beneficial to your people so long as they conform to the rules of military administration of order and justice. This is not a war of devastation, but one to give all within the control of its military and naval forces the advantages and blessings of enlightened civilization.
Nelson A. Miles,
Major-General, Commanding United States Army.
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