Puerto Rico: The Democratic Star

What's the easiest way for the Democrats to keep control of Congress? By giving Puerto Rico statehood. Under a plan now working through the House, the island territory could win two Senate and up to six House seats.

Since the territory leans left, it only makes sense that the Democrats would score big. Foes of statehood are trying to warn Republicans, but so far to no avail. In fact, dozens of Republicans back the measure, which could, by 2012 or so, give Puerto Rico the choice of becoming a full-fledged state or even an independent nation.

By Paul Bedard